Proposed bill targeting pharmacy benefit managers could cause CVS closures across Tennessee
JACKSON, Tenn. — A proposed state bill presented before the insurance subcommittee Wednesday could affect many Tennesseans and cause some of the state’s largest pharmaceutical providers to shut their doors
House Bill 1959, also known as the Fair Rx Act, if passed would change how pharmacies do business by limiting the power of pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, in the prescription drug system.
If passed, the bill could have major impacts on chains like CVS, which both manages drug benefits and operates pharmacies. The change could cause CVS pharmacies to close across the state.
According to CVS, their pharmacists care for more than 1.5 million patients in Tennessee. Those affected by the bill if passed include people who shop and fill prescriptions at CVS, those who get prescriptions from CVS Specialty, and those who seek care at MinuteClinic.
Sponsor says change is needed
Rep. Rick Scarbrough (R-District 33) is the sponsor of the bill.
“This is something that we have to change the structure of to remove this conflict of interest,” Scarbrough said. “As far as access, I quite frankly have a lot of confidence in not just the people in the room, but in the state of Tennessee.”
Opponents speak out
CVS MinuteClinic healthcare provider Michelle Lawson voiced concern about the bill’s impact on patients.
“I understand I may stand to lose my job if this bill passes, but more importantly my patients, my community — they’re the ones that are going to suffer from this,” Lawson said.
Caregiver Natalie Elliot Handy, the daughter of a CVS Specialty patient, also testified before the subcommittee in opposition to the bill.
“I absolutely urge you to find an alternative solution to a bill that would allow my mom not to be negatively impacted by this legislation,” Handy said.
Handy (pictured L) appears in a hearing.
The bill now advances to the House of Representatives’ insurance committee.
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