What is the purpose of the 340B Drug Pricing Program?

The 340B Drug Pricing Program is designed specifically to provide eligible healthcare organizations with access to medications at reduced prices. This program was established under the Affordable Care Act and targets safety-net providers such as hospitals that serve low-income and uninsured patients. By allowing these organizations to purchase drugs at significantly reduced prices, the program aims to stretch scarce federal resources and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to affordable medications.

The goal is to enhance patient care and help these facilities manage their healthcare costs effectively, thus ensuring they can deliver essential services to those who need them most. This aligns with the broader objectives of the ACA to improve healthcare affordability and access, especially for low-income individuals. The other options do not relate directly to the mission of the 340B program, as it is not primarily focused on research, funding expansion programs, or regulating drug advertising.