Virginia House Bill HB1162

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/22
• Refer: 1/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/8/22
• Engrossed: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/16/22
• Report Pass: 2/28/22
• Engrossed: 3/3/22
• Engrossed: 3/7/22
• Enrolled: 3/10/22
• Chaptered: 4/11/22
• Passed: 4/11/22

Caption

Health insurance; discrimination prohibited against covered entities and contract pharmacies.

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly affect state laws regarding the operation of pharmacy benefits managers and their relationships with pharmacies. It establishes specific requirements prohibiting unfair reimbursement practices and mandates compliance for all carriers involved in health benefit plans. This could lead to broader changes in how pharmacy services are managed in the state, particularly enhancing protections for pharmacies serving vulnerable populations. It underscores the growing focus on ensuring equitable access to medications for individuals taking advantage of discounted drug programs.

Summary

House Bill 1162 focuses on prohibiting discrimination against covered entities and contract pharmacies within the realm of health insurance and pharmacy benefits management. This legislation aims to ensure fair treatment for pharmacies that partner with '340B-covered entities', which are healthcare organizations that provide services to low-income patients. HB1162 seeks to safeguard these pharmacies from unfair practices, such as being reimbursed less than pharmacies not associated with 340B programs for the same services, as well as preventing retaliation against pharmacies that participate in the 340B program.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1162 appears to be largely positive among supporters, particularly from advocacy groups focused on healthcare access and fairness in pharmaceutical care. These stakeholders believe that the bill addresses significant disparities in how pharmacies are treated, ultimately benefiting consumers. Conversely, some opponents may express concerns regarding potential impacts on the cost of prescriptions or operational challenges for pharmacy benefits managers, fearing overall disruption to the pharmacy market.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB1162 include discussions about how the legislation could alter existing pharmacy benefits management structures and if it will lead to increased operational costs for insurance carriers. Critics may question whether the protections outlined in the bill effectively balance the needs of pharmacies with those of health insurance companies. Furthermore, there could be debates on whether such measures might inadvertently limit access to pharmacy networks for certain patients, creating a complex landscape for stakeholders involved.