Governor Kay Ivey signed a bill into law that aims to save Alabama pharmacies by prohibiting Pharmacy Benefit Managers, or PBMs, from underpaying pharmacists and charging additional fees. Advocates are calling it a significant victory in the fight against companies that control prescription drug plans. The bill, SB252, unanimously passed both chambers of the State Legislature and will take effect on October 1. Since 2018, around 13% of pharmacies in the state have closed due to PBMs paying pharmacists so little that they can’t cover the cost of the drugs. The Alabama Independent Pharmacy Alliance led a grassroots effort to push for this legislation, supported by over 100 pharmacists staging a walkout and advocating for reform. Despite initial doubts that PBM reform could pass in Alabama, the alliance’s efforts have resulted in a major success that will help protect healthcare access and small businesses in the state. The AIPA emphasized that while this law is a crucial first step, there is still more work to be done in tackling the issues caused by PBMs. The victory highlights the dedication and passion of individuals who worked to educate the public and lawmakers on the harmful effects of PBMs on healthcare access and costs in Alabama. With the new law in place, pharmacies will now be reimbursed at the same rate as Medicaid, offering hope for a more equitable and sustainable future for pharmacies in the state.
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