Bill > H1274

This bill aims to prevent Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) from discriminating against hospitals and pharmacies participating in the 340B drug discount program, which is a federal program that allows certain healthcare providers to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced prices. Specifically, the bill prohibits PBMs from engaging in several potentially unfair practices, including: reimbursing 340B covered entities at lower rates compared to non-340B entities, imposing additional fees or charge-backs based on 340B program participation, restricting network participation because of 340B status, mandating specific pharmacy contracts, requiring special drug claim modifiers (except for Medicaid claims), imposing additional cost burdens or coverage limitations on patients obtaining drugs from 340B entities, and interfering with patients' rights to choose 340B pharmacies. A "340B covered entity" is defined as any healthcare provider participating in the federal 340B drug discount program, including the entity's own pharmacies or contracted pharmacies that dispense drugs purchased through the program. The bill's purpose is to ensure fair treatment and maintain patient choice in accessing discounted medications through the 340B program.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1274