Milestone events took place on April 3 and 11 as U.S. Pain Foundation hosted a legislative breakfast and two advocacy days, a first for the organization, which previously has hosted them only in collaboration with allied partners. The focus of both days was bills that enhance patient safety by limiting the practice of forced medication switches, known as nonmedical switching.
The April 3 program was held at the Connecticut State Capitol and featured keynote legislative speakers, a panel discussion with patients impacted by health coverage interruptions, and a summary of legislation proposed this session. Rep. Michelle Cook and Sen. Heather Somers, cosponsors of Senate Bill 379, addressed those in attendance at the breakfast, with Cook revealing her personal experience with nonmedical switching.
House Bill 6622 Would Keep Insurers from Increasing Out-of-Pocket Costs, Removing Coverage or Restricting Access to Medicines During the Health Plan Year
MIDDLETOWN, CONN. – Feb. 8, 2017 – U.S. Pain Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those who live with painful conditions, today applauded Rep. Michelle L. Cook (D- Torrington) and Rep. Linda A. Orange (D-Colchester) for introducing legislation to ensure stable prescription drug benefits for patients across Connecticut. H.B. 6622 would guarantee that individuals receive the prescription drug coverage that they have signed up for by limiting when insurer policies can change prescription drug formularies during the plan year.