In a statement, NCPA applauded the Harris-Walz presidential campaign’s focus on independent pharmacies as part of its rural health agenda, saying it was another sign that PBM reform is gaining momentum. The statement came in response to an announcement by Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) that he and Vice President Kamala Harris (D) would seek to increase the number of rural pharmacies by 3,000 if elected.
“Independent community pharmacies are often the only accessible health care provider in rural areas. These pharmacies are access points for medications and they also serve as health hubs for accessible care and professional advice,” said NCPA CEO B. Douglas Hoey. “Unfortunately, the big PBMs and insurance plans are forcing many to close their doors with patient steering, back-door fees, and other monopolistic practices. As a result, the number of pharmacy deserts is growing, and millions of patients are being stranded without a local pharmacy.”
