As the workweek draws to a close, many professionals begin planning weekend activities, ranging from outdoor recreation to personal projects.
The chair of the U.S. Senate Health Committee has introduced legislation aimed at restructuring the federal 340B drug discount program, which has provided significant financial benefits to nonprofit hospitals. STAT reports that Senator Bill Cassidy (R‑LA) proposes numerous industry‑backed restrictions, including the shift from upfront discounts to retroactive manufacturer rebates, mandatory pass‑through of savings to patients, and the implementation of sliding‑scale pricing for prescription drugs. The bill also seeks to tighten oversight of contract pharmacies used by hospitals to deliver these discounts.
Jeffrey Vacirca, a physician who leads a prominent New York oncology practice, is among the final contenders considered by the Trump administration for the role of FDA Commissioner, according to Bloomberg News. Vacirca, a graduate of St. George’s University, has served as chief executive officer and chairman of New York Cancer & Blood Specialists since 2008. He co‑founded and sits on the board of OneOncology, a network of independent cancer‑care and urology practices, and also serves on the board of Caris Life Sciences. Vacirca publicly endorsed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health Secretary following President Trump’s 2024 re‑election.
