Bill > H1205

This bill establishes a special commission to study preferred pharmacy networks, which are arrangements where health insurers direct consumers to specific pharmacies where they have negotiated lower drug prices. The commission will be composed of key legislative leaders, including chairs and members from both the house and senate, representing both majority and minority parties. It will also include representatives from important state health agencies such as the Health Policy Commission, Department of Public Health, and Center for Health Information and Analysis. The commission's primary tasks will include investigating the feasibility of implementing preferred pharmacy networks, conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, and estimating potential prescription drug cost savings. Within 12 months of the bill's passage, the commission is required to submit a detailed report to various legislative committees, which will include their findings, recommendations, and draft legislation. The goal of this study is to explore a potential strategy for reducing healthcare costs by creating a mechanism for insurers to negotiate more affordable prescription drug prices.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1205