Alabama Senate Bill SB220

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/19/23
• Refer: 4/19/23
• Report Pass: 5/3/23

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

By allowing pharmacists to refuse to fill prescriptions under certain financial conditions, SB220 is intended to enhance the sustainability of pharmacy operations throughout the state. The bill also empowers pharmacists to engage more openly with patients regarding their medication options, including discussing costs and alternative therapies. Such discussions are not only critical for professional transparency but also essential for patient welfare, as patients can better navigate their medication choices based on accurate information.

Summary

Senate Bill 220 (SB220) introduces significant changes to the legal framework governing pharmacists in Alabama. The bill specifically amends Section 27-45A-7 of the Code of Alabama 1975, enabling pharmacists to decline the dispensing of a medication if the reimbursement offered by pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) falls below the actual acquisition cost of that drug. This provision aims to protect pharmacists from financial losses associated with dispensing medications for which they are not adequately compensated.

Contention

Despite the bill's potential benefits, there may be points of contention among stakeholders. Some critics might argue that this legislation could limit patients' access to necessary medications, especially if pharmacists choose not to fill prescriptions based solely on profitability. The financial dynamics between pharmacies and PBMs represent a broader systemic issue in healthcare that could lead to ongoing debates about the balance between cost management and patient access to care.