National – Workers’ Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) released Interstate Variation and Trends in Workers’ Compensation Drug Payments, 5th Edition Report. According to the report, while prescription payment per claim declined in several states, there were substantial variations across states. The report states the two main prescription cost drivers among the states were dermatological agents and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Enlyte released its Quarterly Medical Price Index Q2 report. The report analyzed the company's medical bill claims for Q1 2020 to Q4 2023. According to the report, medical costs nationally increased by 11% in workers’ compensation and 5% in auto first-party over the past four years.
Arizona – Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs enacted two bills this week, SB 1677 and HB 2274, both bills aim to protect America’s first responders. SB 1677/HB2274, as a reminder, would include workers' compensation coverage for firefighters and certified peace officers diagnosed with post-traumatic disorder (PTSD) to cover a treatment protocol of MDMA (ecstasy) as prescribed by a provider.
Arkansas – This week, Arkansas sued two Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) accusing them of contributing to the opioid crisis in the state. According to ABC News, Attorney General Tim Griffin filed a lawsuit against Optum Inc, Express Scripts Inc, and their subsidiaries.
Delaware – SB 194 passed the House this week and was sent to the Governor. As a reminder, SB 194 would allow pharmacists to provide HIV pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis treatments.
Louisiana – Two bills were signed by Governor Jeff Landry this week:
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- HB 579, as a reminder, would allow pharmacists to dispense HIV pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis.
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- SB 444, as a reminder, would not allow pharmacy benefits managers to reimburse a pharmacy or pharmacists in LA an amount less than the acquisition cost for the covered drug.
Texas – Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation announced they will slightly raise the discount rate. According to the website, effective July 1 through September 30th any interest or discount rate used in the third quarter must be 8.57% up from the 8.55% rate used in the second quarter.
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