Oncology Group Responded to Medicare 2028 Pricing Plans
Clinicians offered recommendations on how to manage drug pricing for Medicare patients starting in 2028.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Cancer
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Should federal drug pricing policies include protections to ensure community medical practices remain financially viable?
The Association for Clinical Oncology submitted formal feedback to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services concerning proposed 2028 drug pricing guidelines. These policies affect how Medicare Part B medications are priced and reimbursed for patients.
Why it matters
The group aims to protect medical practice solvency and maintain patient access to care by addressing potential financial burdens. Small practices may face cash flow challenges if forced to rely on credit while waiting for retrospective drug reimbursements.
The Association for Clinical Oncology issued formal feedback based on an analysis of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program draft guidance. The findings remain preliminary as CMS evaluates stakeholder input on the 2028 implementation plan.
The players
Association for Clinical Oncology
A professional organization representing oncology practices and advocating for policies that support cancer care delivery.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
The federal agency that administers the Medicare program and regulates drug pricing policies for beneficiaries.
The details
Under current proposals, manufacturers can offer the Maximum Fair Price either at the time of purchase or through retrospective rebates. The group advocates for a prospective acquisition model, where providers receive the discounted price upfront. They also recommend that CMS publish an Average Sales Price that excludes these discounted sales to ensure accurate reporting and accounting.
Timeline
January 1, 2028: Maximum Fair Price eligibility begins.
Health Landscape
This development reflects an ongoing shift in the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program as it prepares to include Part B drugs by 2028. It highlights the tension between federal pricing mandates and the logistical realities of oncology practice management.
Patients receiving Medicare Part B treatments should continue monitoring how these policy changes might impact the stability of their local oncology clinics. Any concerns regarding access to specific medications should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
The takeaway
The implementation of the 2028 drug pricing guidance will determine how oncology practices manage medication costs. Patients are encouraged to track updates regarding Medicare policy shifts that could influence the availability of their specialized care.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest updates in oncology care in the Cancer section.
Live Poll
Should federal drug pricing policies include protections to ensure community medical practices remain financially viable?
