pharmacy benefit managers

The House Appropriations Committee on Friday approved a bill that would make a series of changes to regulate PBMs. The Senate unanimously passed its version on Wednesday.

Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to add controls on so-called middlemen in prescription transactions. Independent pharmacy owners have complained that PBMs have taken control of the financial market in the business.

Gov. Ron DeSantis outlined proposed legislation that would target the health care "middlemen" to try to lower prescription costs. He said his plan will increase transparency and help small drug stores.

Some insurers and employers are tapping into assistance programs meant for individual patients. The concern: Some costly drugs could be harder for patients to access.

Elsewhere in the Legislature, the Senate OKs a measure to that would make changes in state’s Medicaid managed-care system and the House took up the issue of nursing home staffing.

Small pharmacies have long complained about benefit managers, which represent health insurers in negotiations with drug companies and pharmacies

Rural pharmacies across the country are struggling to keep doors open. Reasons include insurance company practices, online sellers and COVID.

More than 100 bills have been introduced in 42 states this year to regulate these companies, which serve as conduits for drug manufacturers, health insurers and pharmacies.

An amendment removed a provision that would have allowed state insurance regulators to audit pharmacy benefit managers, insurance companies and HMOs.

A Tampa lawmaker is hoping to lower drug prices and improve care for Floridians by regulating companies that serve as middlemen in the health care...