News

After top drugmakers unsuccessfully tried to squash the program, HHS has finally reached agreements with Merck, Novartis and others to lower prices for the first 10 drugs included in the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.

The purchase is subject to bankruptcy court approval, and the transaction will close pending completion of all closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

A company executive suggested that some competitors may have underpriced their coverage.

With extensive damage to homes and property, the IRS is allowing 401(k) plan participants in South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida and Georgia to take out special disaster distributions from their retirement accounts.

BofA employees filed a lawsuit last week, alleging that the company mismanaged its 401(k) plan by using assets forfeited by former workers for its own financial benefit, in yet another fiduciary forfeiture lawsuit.

Insurers argue that prior authorization is a critical tool for managing excessive or wasteful use of health care services and keeping costs (and ultimately, premiums) in check.