Alabama 2023 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB367

Introduced
4/20/23  

Caption

Relating to pharmacists; to amend Section 27-45A-7, Code of Alabama 1975; to authorize a pharmacist to decline to fill a prescription if the pharmacist will be reimbursed for the drug in an amount that is less than the pharmacist's acquisition cost; and to prohibit a pharmacist from being restricted from discussing matters relating to a pharmacy claim with a patient.

Impact

The bill also emphasizes communication between pharmacists and patients. It prevents restrictions on pharmacists from discussing matters related to pharmacy claims with patients, allowing them to share information about costs, reimbursement, and alternative therapies. This provision is seen as a positive step in enhancing patient care and improving transparency in the pharmacy process. By enabling better communication, patients will have greater access to information that can help them make informed decisions regarding their medications.

Summary

House Bill 367 introduces significant changes to the way pharmacists can manage prescriptions and reimbursements in Alabama. This bill authorizes pharmacists to decline to dispense a drug if they are reimbursed at a rate that is below their acquisition cost. This addresses concerns about the financial viability of pharmacies, particularly smaller independent ones, who may struggle under current reimbursement models set by pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs). By allowing pharmacists this discretion, the legislation aims to protect their economic interests and ensure that they can sustain their operations.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that these measures create a fairer system for pharmacies and enhance patient rights, there are notable points of contention. Some stakeholders have expressed concern that allowing pharmacists to decline prescriptions could lead to patients facing difficulties in obtaining necessary medications, particularly in areas where pharmacy options are limited. Additionally, opposition may arise from PBMs and insurance companies who could be affected by the changes in how drugs are dispensed and reimbursed.

Additional_context

Furthermore, the passage of HB367 may signify a larger trend towards giving more autonomy to healthcare providers, including pharmacists, in the ongoing dialogue about healthcare costs and patient access. Depending on the outcome of its implementation, the bill could spark discussions around the balance between cost control and patient care in the evolving landscape of healthcare legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB278

Pharmacists, allow to dispense ivermectin without a prescription

AL HB79

State Board of Pharmacy and Employers, prohibited from disciplining pharmacists who recommend off-label medical treatments

AL SB28

Pharmacy Board, licensure and regulation of pharmacists and operation of board

AL SB252

Pharmacy Benefits Managers; providing a prescription reimbursement rate for independent pharmacies and regulating other practices

AL SB99

Drug Insurance Benefits; impose more restrictions on pharmacy benefit managers

AL HB52

Board of Pharmacy, compounding pharmacies, number of pharmacy techs reg by board rule

AL SB15

Board of Pharmacy, compounding pharmacies, number of pharmacy technicians regulated by board rule

AL SB93

Pharmacy Benefits Managers; providing additional regulation of practices

AL SB43

Health care providers; prohibit enforcement of contractual terms that restrict sharing cost information to patients and consumers

AL HB238

Pharmacy Benefits Managers; Providing more regulation

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