Working to enact step therapy reform in your state
Moving the needle
By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, March 1, 2022
DermWorld breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level.
Too often, step therapy protocols interfere with patient care and create unwanted burdens on dermatology practices. Treatment decisions should be made between physicians and their patients, resting clinical authority in your hands. The AADA is steadfastly advocating on behalf of you and your patients to maintain access to effective and affordable treatments and to help peel back the curtain on payment policies so coverage is transparent.
In 2021, the AADA supported state legislation throughout the country that would require health insurers to quickly override step therapy protocols if you determine the pathway is medically inappropriate for your patient.
Legislation was adopted in Arkansas and Nebraska that gives physicians access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient method to request a step-therapy override exception. The new laws are based on model legislation drafted by the AADA and other members of the State Access to Innovative Medicines Coalition.
Additionally, in California the Assembly and Senate unanimously passed legislation that will require a shorter timeframe for insurance companies to decide on step therapy appeals, and guarantee approvals for the duration of the prescription and refills if the insurance company fails to take action after the specified timeframe.
To date, dozens of states have enacted step therapy reform laws. With more than half of the country recognizing the value of a physician’s medical judgment, we continue to work in the best interest of you and your patients. Learn more about step therapy laws in your state and what you can do to get involved.
AADA advocacy priorities
Learn more about the AADA’s advocacy priorities.
