Central Ohio Today

State Representatives Tim Barhorst (R-Ft. Loramie) and Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) recently unveiled House Bill 505, also known as the Community Pharmacy Protection Act, during a press conference in Columbus. The proposed legislation aims to tackle issues related to pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices and the accessibility of prescription drugs in Ohio.

Barhorst emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Community pharmacies across the country are being bankrupted because of a system that requires them to dispense pharmaceuticals at a loss. We need HB 505 to keep our mom-and-pop pharmacies in business and ensure healthcare access for all Ohioans.”

Stewart echoed these concerns, mentioning community pharmacists in his district who are struggling and in need of assistance. He emphasized the significance of supporting these local businesses that have been serving patients for decades, stating, “We don’t want to have a situation where residents are driving significant distances to get vital prescriptions filled.”

The Community Pharmacy Protection Act will mandate PBMs to introduce drug cost transparency measures to various entities, including the superintendent of insurance, contracted insurers, and plan sponsors. This report will detail the actual cost of each drug based on claims processed by PBMs.

The legislation is a response to the increasing number of closures of small, local pharmacies in Ohio due to the unfavorable practices of PBMs towards drug supply chain reimbursements. The impact of these practices has forced many pharmacies to operate at a loss, ultimately leading to closures.

As the bill awaits committee assignment, the focus remains on addressing the challenges faced by community pharmacies and ensuring the continued accessibility of essential medications for all Ohio residents.