In JAMA editorial, former FDA chief supports drug importation under narrow circumstances as a way to reduce drug prices, marking a shift from his previous stance on the issue and that of other past agency heads. Essay, co-authored by former CMS Acting Administrator Andy Slavitt, calls importation "a workaround born of desperation." 

Michigan follows Oklahoma in gaining approval to negotiate supplemental rebates in the context of value-based contracts for drugs. Oklahoma now has four novel contracts in place.

Policymakers should instead focus on increasing efficiencies in drug development, distribution and reimbursement, National Academies report says, while also seeking broad policies like HHS direct negotiation for drug prices in Medicare.