Pharmaceutical Leaders Introduce Direct-to-Consumer Discount for Eliquis
Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer have unveiled a novel approach to make their popular anticoagulant, Eliquis, more affordable by offering it directly to patients at discounts exceeding 40%. This initiative seeks to significantly lower the monthly expense by bypassing intermediaries such as pharmacy benefit managers and insurance providers.
New Program Focuses on Patients Without Adequate Insurance Coverage
Starting September 8, individuals lacking insurance or facing insufficient coverage can access Eliquis through the Eliquis 360 support program. the medication will be delivered directly to patients’ residences, reducing the cost from roughly $606 per month to about $346.
The Broader Context: Escalating Pressure on U.S.Drug Prices
This development arrives amid heightened governmental efforts aimed at controlling pharmaceutical costs. Current policies include proposals for tariffs on imported drugs and initiatives designed to align U.S. medication prices with those in other advanced economies-reflecting widespread concerns over healthcare affordability.
Cost Comparison Highlights Remaining Price Disparities
Even though this discount is significant,the reduced price still remains nearly nine times higher than what commercially insured patients typically pay out-of-pocket-an average of just $38 monthly. It also surpasses Medicare’s negotiated rate of $231 per month for Eliquis under new legislation targeting drug inflation; this Medicare pricing is set to take affect next year.
The Debate over Value in Negotiated Pricing Models
Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer stress that Medicare’s negotiated price does not currently determine patient copays nor fully reflect the clinical benefits and economic value that Eliquis delivers as a critical therapy for stroke prevention and blood clot management.
Enhancing access While Promoting Pricing Transparency
Currently, over 90% of Eliquis prescriptions are covered through insurance plans. Though, this direct-to-patient strategy aims to expand availability by providing clear pricing options tailored specifically for uninsured or self-paying individuals who frequently enough face prohibitive costs when accessing essential medications.
“This program channels greater savings directly toward patients and underscores our ongoing commitment to innovative solutions that optimize individual health outcomes while prioritizing access,” stated bristol Myers Squibb CEO Chris Boerner.
Industry Outlook: strategic Adaptation Amid Policy Shifts
Market experts view this move as a calculated response from Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer following executive directives focused on lowering American drug prices via international reference pricing frameworks. Despite existing notable rebates managed through pharmacy benefit managers, analysts do not expect this new direct sales program will adversely affect either company’s overall revenue streams.
