According to the written version of Norwalk’s testimony, “A recent CMS survey found that up to 18 of the top 20 [prescription-drug plans] pay pharmacy claims on a twice-a-month billing cycle of 15 days or less. A 15-day billing cycle generally provides pharmacies with payment within 21-25 days. The top plans account for more than 90 percent of the drug coverage for Medicare beneficiaries.�
Norwalk also insisted to subcommittee members that CMS does not have the authority to compel drug plans to pay their claims within a set time period. “It’s a matter of contract between the pharmacy and the plan,� she said. “The statute is clear that we’re not permitted to interfere in the negotiations between plans and pharmacies.�

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