Cuts to the 340B program threaten rural hospitals

As leaders in Washington debate ways to lower prescription drug prices, it’s important to remember that many Americans are getting access to free or heavily discounted care through the crucial 340B drug pricing program. This is especially true in rural communities such as here in Boone County in central Iowa, where access to high-quality care is often threatened by economic pressures.

The 340B program provides Americans of limited means with access to needed care by requiring drug companies to discount the prices they charge healthcare facilities like mine — Boone County Hospital in Iowa — which together take care of the majority of this vulnerable population.