CNBC Investigations: U.S. health plans tap prescriptions that feds say are illegal

Key Concerns Regarding Prescription Drug Costs - The cost of specialty medications can reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, with US prescription drug prices averaging nearly three times more than in other countries [2] - Employers and families are seeking solutions due to skyrocketing prescription drug prices [1][2] - Alternative funding programs (AFPs) source medications from overseas at a fraction of the cost, but these drugs may not be FDA approved [3][7] Risks Associated with Imported Drugs - Imported drugs may be counterfeit, mislabeled, or improperly handled, potentially rendering them ineffective or unsafe [9][10] - Lack of FDA oversight raises concerns about the quality and safety of these medications [7][8] - The FDA has issued warning letters to companies importing counterfeit or mislabeled drugs [10] Legality and Regulatory Issues - The FDA states that importing drugs available domestically is illegal [4][17] - AFPs argue they are facilitating patients' rights under the personal importation policy, allowing a 90-day supply for personal use, but the FDA disputes this [16][17] Insurance Schemes and Employer Responsibility - Some employer-sponsored insurance plans carve out coverage for expensive specialty medicines and contract with AFPs to source drugs from overseas [6] - Employees need to check their specialty medicine coverage and inquire about the source of their medications [14] - AFPs may claim to source drugs from safe countries like the UK or Canada, but drugs may be transhipped from other countries like Turkey [15]