An official website of the State of Maryland.

Maryland.gov Translate

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Prescription Drug Affordability Board

Cost Review Study Process

About the Cost Review Study Process

The cost review study process includes five phases: Identify, Select, Collect, Analyze, Results. This process is outlined in COMAR 14.01.04

  1. Identify

    The Board reviews data and public input to identify eligible drugs that may create affordability challenges.

  2. Select

    The Board (in consultation with the Stakeholder Council) decides which drugs should be selected for a Cost Review study.

  3. Collect

    The Board gathers data, research, and public perspectives on the drug’s price and impact. ​The Board may also collect data through a Request for Information. This is the process for the Board to collect additional information on the drugs selected. 

  4. Analyze

    The Board analyzes and evaluates the data that is collected. These data and analyses consolidated and summarized to be published in a dossier. 

  5. Results

    The Board reviews the Dossier and may make a preliminary determination of whether the prescription drug has led or will lead to affordability challenges to the State health care system or high out of pocket costs for patients.  Depending on that determination a drug may enter into the Policy Review Process where the Board explores policy options to make the drug more affordable. These policies include a process to set an upper payment limit (UPL Policy), or explore other policies that may make the drug more affordable (non-UPL policies).

    Learn more about Upper Payment Limits