For patients with hepatitis C, the last
year has brought great hope: New drugs that are highly effective with
few side effects. But their high cost has led Medicaid officials in
Pennsylvania and other states to put up barriers for patients, treating
only the sickest ones and leaving many others to wait.
"This is an unprecedented approach we've had to take with these
drugs," said Terri Cathers, pharmacy director for Pennsylvania's Office
of Medical Assistance Programs. "We've not done this before for other
treatments as long as I've been in the business."
The approach, she said, is a direct result of the cost, which can range up to $150,000 per patient.
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