Potential Cost Savings in Medicare Part D Across Gastroenterology: An Assessment of Alternative Drug Sourcing

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Until recently, the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid were restricted from negotiating drug cost. We assessed the potential impact of alternative drug sourcing models on Medicare Part D spending. METHODS: Twenty-seven drugs were extracted from 2021 Medicare Part D claims. Drug-specific/total spending was compared against cost at Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company, Costco Member Prescription Program, and Veterans Health Administration price point. RESULTS: Potential Part D savings were $798.99 million, $573.84 million, and $1.02 billion (Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company, Costco Member Prescription Program, and Veterans Health Administration, respectively). DISCUSSION: Disproportionate Part D spending likely reflects less competitive acquisition cost. Provider awareness of medications with advantaged price may promote targeted prescribing with potentially tremendous health care savings.