For Immediate Release
10/10/12

Rafferty Bill to Improve Access to Community Pharmacies Advances

Harrisburg – Legislation sponsored by Sen. John Rafferty (R-44) to improve access to community pharmacies was approved by the Senate last week and is moving toward a final vote in the House of Representatives.

Senate Bill 201 requires health insurance companies, Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans, and government sponsored pharmacy benefit programs to allow patients to use retail community pharmacies, if the retail community pharmacies agree to accept the same pricing, terms, conditions or requirements related to the cost of the prescriptions and the quality of care as are established for mail order pharmacies.

"This legislation will provide consumers with the opportunity to use retail community pharmacies, at the same cost to insurance companies, Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans, government programs, and employers as currently incurred when using mail order pharmacies," said Rafferty.

According to retail pharmacists, leveling the competitive marketplace will also decrease health care costs by promoting more effective face-to-face consultations, avoiding the waste often associated with dispensing only long-term supplies of medications, and promoting more effective medication therapy management. 

"While some consumers prefer to use mail order pharmacies, surveys of consumer preferences indicate that most patients prefer the convenience and personal service offered by community pharmacies and often develop trusted relationships with their local pharmacists," said Rafferty.

Following approval by the Senate, Senate Bill 201 was approved by the House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee, and is now before the full House for consideration.

CONTACTS:

Sean Moll
(717) 783-0192