New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR94

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22
• Report Pass: 9/15/22
• Engrossed: 12/15/22
• Refer: 12/15/22

Caption

Urges US Congress and President to strengthen provisions of Medicare Part D.

Impact

If enacted, ACR94 could significantly change how pharmacy networks operate under Medicare Part D, enhancing access to prescription drugs for vulnerable populations. The resolution draws attention to the barriers faced by many patients in both urban and rural settings, where limited availability of 'preferred' pharmacies can lead to higher costs and logistical challenges in obtaining medication. By advocating for more inclusive pharmacy participation, the resolution aims to alleviate these access issues, benefiting those who might struggle to reach pharmacies due to transportation difficulties or other barriers.

Summary

Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 94 (ACR94) urges the United States Congress and the President to enact legislation that strengthens certain provisions of the Medicare Part D program. The resolution highlights the need for improved access to prescription medications for senior citizens and Americans with disabilities who participate in Medicare, advocating for reforms that allow patients greater freedom in choosing their pharmacies. ACR94 specifically aims to ensure that all pharmacies willing to meet the terms and conditions of Medicare networks can participate without penalties, thereby upholding the ‘Any Willing Provider’ standard.

Contention

Despite its supportive intentions, ACR94 may face contention from various stakeholders in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. Critics might argue that expanding access to more pharmacies could complicate the management of prescription drug plans and potentially increase costs. There are concerns about ensuring that pharmacies maintain quality and compliance standards, with opponents asserting that a more open network could dilute the benefits of existing preferred pharmacy arrangements. Furthermore, the dynamics between rural and urban pharmacy access are complex, and some may argue that a more inclusive policy could lead to unintended outcomes in different regions.