Federal judge denies immediate changes to Maryland retiree drug system

A federal judge recently denied a request to make immediate changes to Maryland's new prescription drug system for state retirees, according to FOX45 Baltimore.

The legal dispute centers on retirees who say the switch last year from the previous state prescription drug coverage to Medicare Part D plans has increased their out-of-pocket costs significantly. Some retirees report spending thousands more and having to dip into savings to afford medications.

The new system offers Medicare Part D coverage with additional financial help from the state, but retirees argue it has made accessing benefits more complicated and expensive. One retiree estimated costs increased by $1,000 to $2,000, and others noted prescription prices have at least doubled.

One retiree has filed a lawsuit against the Maryland Department of Budget and Management, alleging the state did not properly implement required reimbursement programs and challenging the use of Via Benefits, a private company administering parts of the program.

The federal judge's recent decision denied an injunction request, meaning no immediate changes will be made while the legal battle continues.