Pharmacy Trade Group Applauds Senate Action Ending “Gag Clauses”

NACDS has endorsed S. 2554, the Patient Right to Know Drug Prices Act, which helps pharmacies help patients reduce out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.

In a letter to Sen. Susan M. Collins (R-ME), lead author of the bill, NACDS wrote, “NACDS believes gag clauses should not be allowed in contracts between health plans and pharmacies. Such clauses prevent pharmacists from informing patients when a medication can be purchased at a lower price without using insurance. The prohibition and/or removal of gag clauses in contracts between health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and pharmacies will enhance patient access to medications, enable pharmacists to have improved relationships with patients, and keep healthcare costs for patients to a minimum.”

NACDS President and CEO, Steven C. Anderson, told Drug Topics that the results of a national survey commissioned by NACDS, revealed that 83% of voters said that pharmacists provide credible advice for saving money on prescription drugs. Anderson says that the new legislation would remove a significant barrier that prevents pharmacists from providing even more critical information to patients. NACDS will continue to advocate for this vital bill and he urges its continued progress and its ultimate enactment, he added.

Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives (H.R. 6143) by Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX).

NACDS also submitted comments to Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar in response to a request-for-information related to the Trump Administration’s “Blueprint to Lower Drug Prices and Reduce Out-of-Pocket Costs.”