In Dothan, Alabama, pharmacies, including Dalton Pharmacy in Slocomb, dimmed their lights for an hour to protest against unfair pricing by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).
These PBMs act as middlemen between insurance companies and pharmacies, controlling the reimbursements pharmacies receive for the medications they buy. Workers at Dalton Pharmacy believe that these unfair practices are making it hard for independent pharmacies to stay open.
They argue that PBMs are lowering the reimbursement rates, making it difficult to cover the cost of medications.
Struggles of Independent Pharmacies
Lindsay King from Dalton Pharmacy shared that they often have to sell prescriptions at a loss because the reimbursement from PBMs is lower than the cost of buying the medication.
This issue has been growing since 2018, leading to the closure of 13% of pharmacies in Alabama. King explained that many independent pharmacies are at risk of closing down because they cannot compete with the low reimbursement rates set by large PBMs.
She compared the struggle to a “David and Goliath” battle, where small, community-focused pharmacies are up against big corporations with deep pockets.
Impact on Local Communities
If independent pharmacies like Dalton Pharmacy were to close, it would significantly impact local communities, especially the elderly.
King mentioned that while driving 15 to 20 minutes to the nearest chain pharmacy may not seem like a big deal, it could be challenging for older customers.
She emphasized the personal touch and dedicated service they provide, saying, “We know our customers by name and go above and beyond to help them.” In contrast, chain pharmacies may have longer wait times and less personalized care.
Call for Legislative Change
A bill in the Alabama Senate aims to address this issue by requiring PBMs to provide fair reimbursements to pharmacies. The proposed legislation would stop PBMs from paying pharmacies less than the cost of the medication.
King clarified that the bill would not increase taxes or affect customers’ copays. She also pointed out that similar laws in Tennessee and West Virginia have saved money by ensuring that the benefits go directly to the customers and employers rather than the PBMs.
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Community Support and Hope for Change
Dalton Pharmacy and other independent pharmacies hope that the protest will raise awareness and lead to positive changes in the industry.
King encouraged people who have concerns about the bill to reach out to their local representatives. She expressed her love for serving the community and her hope that they wouldn’t have to close their doors due to unfair business practices.
A Fight for Fairness
The protest by dimming lights was a powerful way for local pharmacies to voice their struggle against unfair pricing.
It highlights the challenges faced by independent pharmacies and the impact on the communities they serve. With the proposed bill in the Senate, there is hope for fairer practices that will help keep these local businesses alive.
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