New agreement between HHS, Pfizer to ensure access to Paxlovid

Editor's Note

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Pfizer have announced an agreement to extend patient access to the COVID-19 drug Paxlovid, Healthcare Purchasing News October 16 reports. According to the article, Pfizer is readying the drug for more availability in the commercial market in November 2023. 

Key features of the agreement include:

• Ensuring that people on Medicare and Medicaid as well as the uninsured can receive HHS-procured Paxlovid for free through the end of 2024.
• Pfizer will offer a copay assistance program for those with commercial insurance through 2028.
• Ensuring that the HHS inventory of Paxlovid will not expire and will include all new formulations approved for use in the US.
• Pfizer will provide HHS with a stockpile of an additional one million treatment courses to prepare for future emergencies. 

The agreement will help to ensure a smooth transition as Paxlovid heads to the commercial market and keep supplies readily available and accessible for all those who need it.