Big Pharma wants changes to 340B that could expose medical data
A new policy being pushed by Big Pharma giants could endanger Americans’ medical privacy, opening the door for hackers to access sensitive records.
TL;DR
- Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are demanding claims-level patient data for 340B drug discounts.
- This data could expose sensitive medical information, including diagnoses, treatments for sensitive conditions, and vaccination status.
- Critics warn the policy endangers patient privacy and opens the door for hackers.
- The data handling process involves a third-party platform with a history of cybersecurity breaches.
- Hospitals express concerns about administrative burden and potential impacts on patient access to care, especially in rural areas.
- The American Hospital Association suggests a government-run clearinghouse as an alternative, but this also raises security concerns.