Boston Scientific reported disappointing first-quarter results for its cardiac rhythm management division, mostly due to price erosion in the U.S and the lack of a quadripolar CRT-D device. But the firm argues that the new S-ICD and forthcoming quadripolar CRT-D products may help turn the business around soon.

Drugs for hepatitis C have historically been subject to prior authorization requirements, mainly to confirm that the patient is infected and to align treatment duration with a patient’s viral load. However, Health Net’s criteria goes further toward limiting the number of patients who get coverage.

With the acquisition, CVS Caremark would add approximately 400,000 members to its stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plan business, solidifying its position as number two in the PDP market.

Government and industry officials comment on the launch of Medicare Part D, proposals to overhaul drug safety regulation, and the role of FDA advisory committees.