GTMRx endorses bipartisan bill to advance PGx testing (RDD Now Act)
U.S. Reps. Eric Swalwell and Dan Crenshaw have introduced the Right Drug Dose Now Act to advance pharmacogenomics (PGx) to “prevent adverse drug events and help ensure that patients receive medications tailored to their genetic makeup.” Championed by GTMRx, the legislation calls for integrating genetic information into EHRs to address adverse drug events—the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. The legislation also calls for use of CMM process in conjunction with PGx testing as part of the drug assessment process. GTMRx worked with House staffers to craft the bill’s definition of CMM: “medication management pursuant to a standard of care that ensures each patient’s medications are individually assessed to determine that each medication is appropriate for the patient, effective for the medical condition, and safe given the comorbidities and other medications being taken and able to be taken by the patient as intended.” (Houston Daily; press release)
PGx testing could prevent most ADRs
Research in PLOS Medicine shows that testing three specific genes could prevent up to 75% of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Analysis of 1.3 million ADR reports revealed 9% of ADRs stem from genetic factors. Researchers identified psychiatry as a key area to pilot pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing, which promises to reduce ADR-related morbidity, mortality, and costs by improving prescribing safety. This approach could significantly mitigate risks through a panel of three pharmacogenes. (Inside Precision Medicine; PLOS Medicine)
Practice Transformation
AHRQ shuttered amid HHS workforce cuts
On April 1, the Trump administration dissolved the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) during broader workforce reductions at HHS, slashing its budget by up to 90%. AHRQ was pivotal in reducing hospital infections and medical errors through safety initiatives. Its closure caused mass layoffs and a “brain drain,” raising concerns over the future of its work. Critics warn that the shutdown, part of larger HHS cuts, will hinder progress in improving patient safety and healthcare quality. (KFF Health News)
Small Montana pharmacies take on PBMs
Montana’s small, independent pharmacies say they’re being increasingly squeezed by PBMs, and they’re doing something about it. They are pushing legislation to combat low reimbursements and anticompetitive practices by PBMs. The bill sets a minimum reimbursement rate, restricts practices favoring PBM-owned pharmacies, and limits after-the-fact fees. PBMs argue the bill may raise costs and disrupt pricing. Montana’s pharmacies warn of closures if delays persist, threatening communities reliant on local healthcare access. (KFF Health News)
Evidence & Innovation
Judge Allows Colorado to cap prescription drug prices
A federal judge dismissed Amgen’s lawsuit challenging Colorado’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board, enabling the state to set price caps on medications like Enbrel. U.S. District Court Judge Nina Wang’s ruling sets a precedent for state-level control over drug pricing. This decision aligns with broader efforts in states like Florida and Minnesota to regulate prices. It’s a setback for the pharmaceutical industry, which opposes such measures to improve affordability. (STAT; Colorado Sun)
Policy Solutions
Judge: Employer not to blame for PBM actions
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit former employees filed against Wells Fargo, alleging the bank violated fiduciary duties under ERISA by failing to reduce prescription drug costs. Plaintiffs accused the bank of allowing PMB Express Scripts to overcharge and retain rebates. The court ruled the employees lacked standing due to no demonstrated harm. This outcome is a win for employers amid growing health benefits litigation that addresses fiduciary obligations and prescription drug pricing. (Healthcare Dive)
