The NHIA has just announced the adjustment of the prices of 120 NHI-reimbursed drug items, affecting certain drugs for advanced ovarian cancer, depression, as well as antipyretic and painkillers containing acetaminophen.  The adjustment entails a 21% price reduction on drugs for advanced ovarian cancer and breast cancer and an 8% cut on 8 drugs containing acetaminophen.  The new prices will take effect from July.

Shen Tsai-Ping, the spokesperson of the TPMMA, expressed her concerns regarding the impact of the drug price adjustment on the existing drug shortage problem, especially as manufacturers are facing increased raw material costs.

According to the NHIA’s announcement, in terms of magnitude, drugs for advanced ovarian cancer and breast cancer are most affected by the price reduction.  Their price will be decreased by 21%, from NT$1711 to NT$1350.   As for anti-depressants, the price will be reduced from NT$15.5 to NT$12.4.  And for antipyretic and painkillers commonly used by the public, 8 drugs containing acetaminophen are affected, with a price cut from NT$3.21 to NT$2.95 per tablet.

Shen said that after the pandemic, there is no longer a shortage of boxed acetaminophen in the retail market.  However, the supply of bulk products for dispensing remains erratic.  Some patients are unable to have their prescriptions filled at pharmacies.   This situation will be exacerbated by the price cut. 

Tsai Shu-Ling, the Deputy Director-General of the NHIA, expressed that after the NHIA revealed the price adjustment plan in March, many drug companies complained that the new prices are too low to cover their costs.  Therefore, the NHIA suspended the implementation of the new prices in April and requested additional cost analysis data from drug companies.  After carefully reviewing the data, the NHIA considered the new prices are reasonable and decided to implement the new drug prices.  

【2023-06-15 / United Daily】