Federal health officials have announced a revised 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program that will begin on January 1, 2027. Under the pilot, participating drug manufacturers will no longer provide a discounted purchase price at the point of sale; instead, eligible safety‑net hospitals, community health centers and other covered entities will pay the full wholesale acquisition cost up front and later claim a rebate from the manufacturer. Manufacturers must submit rebate plans by August 24, with approvals expected about a month later. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) says the delayed rebate will be manageable and that most providers will receive payment from wholesalers after the rebate is received. Patients will see no change in prescription prices on the start date. The 340B program funds charity care, sliding‑scale pharmacy services, patient navigators and other low‑income health services, so the timing of savings is critical.
Separately, consultants are urging Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to strengthen eligibility, compliance and pharmacy strategy to maximize 340B savings. They recommend robust documentation, proper site registration, and reviews of contract‑pharmacy arrangements to ensure that savings support affordable medication, care coordination and expanded services for underserved communities.
Entities: 340B Rebate Pilot Program · Federally Qualified Health Centers · Health Resources and Services Administration · drug manufacturers · safety‑net hospitals