The state and consequences of dermatology drug prices in the United States

Abstract

In 2014, Medicare expenditures increased 12%, the largest increase reported since 2002, resulting in major concerns by both patients and physicians. Although costs are rising for both specialty drugs and generic medications,out-of-pocket costs, restrictive formularies,and health plan bureaucracies are limiting patients' access to necessary medications. In response, the Regulatory Policy Committee of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)/Association (AAD/A) convened a Task Force on Drug Pricing and Transparency. This editorial summarizes the issues addressed by the task force along with relevant AAD/A policy.