Limited Insurance Coverage for New Alzheimer's Treatment

Some private insurers in states like North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and New York are refusing to cover the newly approved Alzheimer's drug, Leqembi, citing it as experimental and questioning its safety and effectiveness. This decision contrasts with Medicare, which will cover most patients taking the drug. While about 76% of Leqembi users will be covered by Medicare, those under 65 with commercial coverage are being denied access, leading to concerns of discrimination against younger patients. The full picture on commercial insurance coverage is still emerging, with some insurers yet to make a decision. The high cost and serious side effects of Leqembi are factors contributing to insurers' hesitancy.