Things you need to know about the Affordable Care Act and prescription drugs — but probably don’t

[PoliticAverse]

Washington Post article with some Q&A on the ACA and prescription drugs...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/things-you-need-to-know-about-the-affordable-care-act-and-prescription-drugs--but-probably-dont/2013/12/09/c00054c4-5eba-11e3-95c2-13623eb2b0e1_story.html

[djean111]

1. Sounds like Big Pharma still has an iron lock on prices

and insurance companies still have an iron grip on availability.

"Some plans may ask you to pay $30 for a medicine while others could charge you $1,000 for the exact same thing, so be sure to check the name of the drug and the specific dosage you need."

" What if a drug I take is not on the list?

Your doctor can ask for an exception for medical need so that the insurer will cover it. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is encouraging insurers to respond to such requests within three days. If your request is denied, you can go through your state’s appeals process, which usually is handled by insurance regulators. If you still can’t get coverage and need to take the drug, you’ll have to bear the full cost out of pocket, as it won’t count toward your deductible or your co-insurance maximum."

Meet the new boss - same as the old boss - as far as Big Pharma is concerned.