Medicaid Paper Offers Policy Solutions for Equitable CGT Access 

With the anticipated surge in approvals of gene and cell therapy products, it is crucial to address the existing disparities and limitations within the Medicaid system. The upfront costs associated with these innovative treatments, coupled with the projected larger patient populations, pose significant barriers to coverage for Medicaid beneficiaries. A work group of ASGCT experts has published a review titled Medicaid Coverage Practices for Approved Gene and Cell Therapies: Existing Barriers and Proposed Policy Solutions, shedding light on the challenges of equitable patient access within the Medicaid system. 

This comprehensive review specifically focuses on the discrepancies between state Medicaid coverage policies and the labeled indications of gene and cell therapies. The findings in this article underscore the urgent need for federal policy interventions to create consistent coverage and foster equitable patient care. ASGCT advocates for patient access to cell and gene therapies through appropriate, innovative payment models. Check out the article to gain insights into the current payment and access landscape, and discover how legislative and regulatory actions can pave the way for improved patient care.  

Read the full paper

Dr. Rouce is an ASGCT Board member; member of the Communications and Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion committees, and an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine.

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