Letter supports independent pharmacies

Dear Editor,

Independent pharmacies are a lifeline for many Louisiana families, especially in the rural parts of our state. But lately, these pharmacies are being pushed to the edge by abusive practices from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). These middlemen decide reimbursement rates and control who gets included in pharmacy networks, and they’ve made it almost impossible for small pharmacies to stay afloat.

Too many pharmacists in our state are forced to fill prescriptions at a loss because PBMs won’t reimburse them fairly. I’ve heard stories of pharmacies losing money on basic medications and struggling to keep their doors open. When these pharmacies close, entire communities lose access to the care they rely on — and in a rural state like ours, that often means long drives or going without important medications altogether.

Meanwhile, PBM companies continue to grow their profits while families and pharmacists carry the burden. This system is tilted in favor of giant corporations instead of the people of Louisiana, who simply need consistent, accessible care. Take it from me – that’s not how health care should work in the greatest country on earth.

That’s why I’m asking our congressional delegation to support the PBM Reform Act this year. This bill could help stabilize reimbursement practices and give independent pharmacies a fair shot at survival. If we want Louisiana’s communities to stay strong, we need to protect the pharmacies that anchor them, and this is why Congress must make PBM reform a top priority.