How does the 340B Program aim to improve health outcomes for patients?

The 340B Program is designed specifically to improve health outcomes for patients by providing access to affordable medication. This program allows eligible healthcare providers, including safety-net hospitals and clinics, to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced prices. As a result, these providers can offer medications to underserved populations at little to no cost, which is crucial for those who might otherwise struggle to afford necessary treatments.

By making medications more accessible, the 340B Program helps patients adhere to their prescribed treatment regimens, leading to better management of chronic diseases and overall improved health outcomes. The financial savings from the discounted drugs can also be reinvested into patient care services, further enhancing healthcare access and quality for vulnerable populations.

The other options focus on aspects that do not align with the program's goals. Increasing drug costs and minimizing healthcare provider involvement run contrary to the objectives of improving access and optimizing patient care. Centralizing medication distribution does not address the immediate need for affordability and access that the 340B Program seeks to fulfill. Therefore, the focus on affordable medications is what fundamentally supports better health outcomes for patients.