CMS Requests Comment on Part D Pharmacy Contract Standards
CMS published a Sept. 24 Federal Register request for information asking what should count as "reasonable and relevant" terms in contracts between Medicare Part D plan sponsors and network pharmacies, a phrase CMS has never defined despite requiring it under existing rules. The request is a first step toward implementing a Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 provision requiring any willing pharmacy to participate in Part D networks starting with plan years on or after Jan. 1, 2029. CMS is seeking input on reimbursement and dispensing fees, specialty pharmacy designation, 340B contract terms, contract transparency, and quality/audit practices. Comments are due Nov. 23 under Docket CMS-2026-3037, a deadline the SBA's Office of Advocacy flagged to small businesses on Nov. 9.