By State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh)

Many Pennsylvania residents are struggling to pay for their prescription medication. Bipartisan legislation that was signed into law recently should bring about positive reforms that will help to reduce costs in the health care system.

Act 77 of 2024, which I supported, makes much-needed reforms to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). PBMs play a crucial role as middlemen between insurance companies and pharmaceutical manufacturers, negotiating drug prices and discounts on behalf of insurers and pharmacies.

The new law aims to bring more transparency and fairness to the pharmaceutical industry system by requiring PBMs to disclose financial information on rebates and payments received from drug manufacturers and how these funds are distributed. Additionally, the legislation seeks to limit or ban practices like patient steering and clawbacks, which can be detrimental to consumers and pharmacies. Under the Act, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department will develop a process for resolving certain pharmacy complaints against PBMs.

In a time when bipartisan cooperation is rare, the united front for reforming PBMs is encouraging. Lawmakers from both parties recognize some of the problems in the current system that are increasing costs for consumers, and we were able to agree upon these reform measures.

Another initiative that makes prescription drugs more affordable was launched last year by Amazon Pharmacy. RxPass is a Prime membership benefit that offers consumers affordable access to frequently prescribed generic medications that treat more than 80 common health conditions. According to the company, RxPass allows Prime members to receive all their eligible medications for one flat, low monthly fee of $5, and have them delivered free of charge.

I was proud to play a role in making RxPass available to consumers in Pennsylvania. After being contacted by a constituent who wondered why he was unable to enroll in RxPass, I investigated the matter and learned there were two conflicting state regulations preventing it from happening. Through my assistance, Amazon Pharmacy was able to work with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to resolve the issue and make the RxPass available to Prime members in the Commonwealth.

More work certainly needs to be done in this area. I will continue to advocate for changes and positive reforms to reduce prescription drug costs for consumers.