The PA Pharmacists Association applauds Gov. Tom Wolf for signing House Bill 946 (Baker-R-Tioga) into law Monday. This legislation takes a giant step forward in creating transparency within the PBM industry which will benefit patients and pharmacists.
Many other states across the country have taken similar steps in recent months and years. The bill also addressed pharmacy reimbursement within the PACE program bringing it current with new Centers for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS) requirements.
Specifically, House Bill 946 will:
-- Require Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to register with the Department of Insurance;
-- Provide for greater transparency in the establishment and management of multiple source generic lists to pharmacies;
-- Provide for uniform and fair standards in the auditing of pharmacy claims; and
-- Rebalance PACE reimbursement to National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) + a $13 professional dispensing fee or Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) +3.2 percent (when NADAC is not available).
“While there are many legislators and staff who are owed thanks, we would like to especially recognize Representatives Matt Baker, Flo Fabrizio and Frank Farry; along with Senators Rich Alloway, Don White and Sean Wiley for delving into the issue, working with us on language, and ultimately ushering this bill to Gov. Wolf,” said Pat Epple, PPA CEO.
“We also thank the members of the Pennsylvania Community Pharmacists Caucus; and the many staff members who worked on many versions of the bill and convened numerous meetings of the various stakeholders. This new law is an incredibly important step for pharmacy particularly community pharmacy in the Commonwealth and we look forward to working on its implementation.”
Founded in 1878, the PA Pharmacists Association is a professional membership organization of more than 2,300 pharmacists and pharmacy students across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, representing almost all facets of pharmacy practice.
As the leading voice of pharmacy in Pennsylvania, it promotes the profession through advocacy, education, and communication to enhance patient care and public health.
A House Fiscal Note and summary is available.
