State considers Medicaid's Viagra coverage

New York and Wisconsin health officials said last week they won't obey a federal directive that Medicaid must pay for the drug because they're not sure Viagra is safe.

"The state's position is it's federal law, and we're going to comply," said Gordon Absher, press secretary to Gov. Bob Miller. He added, however, the state is permitted to impose restrictions.

So far this year, Medicaid has covered 13 prescriptions for Viagra for a total cost of $1,300.

State Human Resources Director Charlotte Crawford said the state can impose conditions on prescriptions for Medicaid recipients, adding that "all due diligence" will be applied in authorizing this drug.

Crawford added a limit on the number of dosages could be imposed; there could be a duration on the prescription; and there could be a requirement that physicians get prior authorization from Medicaid before writing the prescription.

A review committee, composed of medical officials hired by the state to review such issues, will submit various suggestions to Crawford who will makes a final decision after talking with Medicaid officials.

About 9,500 male adults in Nevada are covered by Medicaid, the federal-state program to provide medical care for the needy. Most in this program are women and children.

The National Governors' Association estimates it will cost $100 million a year for the states and the federal government to pay for Viagra. Gov. Miller is concerned this was another unfunded mandate from the federal government, Crawford said.

Another concern is the potential abuse, such as selling the drug on the street. Crawford said the federal government is going to watch this, and the state will join in that effort.

The Food and Drug Administration says it has received 30 reports of death since Viagra was cleared for use three months ago. The manufacturer cautions it should not be taken by those on certain heart medications.

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