Pharmacists in Alabama are planning a statewide walkout on Tuesday in support of SB93, the Patient Access Bill. The bill aims to reform reimbursement policies for pharmacies from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), who currently reimburse pharmacies at rates lower than their cost of dispensing medication. The walkout, organized by the Alabama Pharmacy Association, will involve over 100 pharmacies across the state. The legislation would also eliminate a “gag-order” prohibiting pharmacists from informing patients of prescription costs and alternative treatments.
Supporters of the bill argue that PBMs have raised prescription costs and negatively impacted the healthcare industry. However, the Alliance of Alabama Healthcare Consumers opposes SB93 and a similar bill, SB99, claiming that it will add a $10.64 “dispensing fee” on all prescriptions in the state, costing individuals and families hundreds of dollars annually.
Despite opposition, bipartisan support for both SB93 and SB99 exists in the legislature, with similar reforms in other states like Kentucky and West Virginia resulting in significant cost savings. Last year, a PBM reform bill failed to pass, but these new bills are being met with more support. The legislation will be brought before a Senate committee for further deliberation this week.
The walkout is seen as a necessary and visible way to advocate for patient access and the survival of pharmacies in Alabama. Supporters of the bill hope that by reforming reimbursement policies for pharmacies, they will be able to keep their doors open and provide vital healthcare services to patients.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
