The Coalition for PBM Reform Thanks HHS and CMS for Taking First Steps in Curbing PBM Abuses

Washington, D.C. (January 12, 2022) — The Coalition for PBM Reform, a collection of healthcare providers, patient advocates, and pharmacy groups issued the following statement in response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule reforming drug pricing in relation to prescription drug middlemen.

“The Coalition for PBM Reform thanks the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for taking the first steps to address so-called pharmacy direct and indirect remuneration (DIR) fees charged by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). These hidden fees penalize patients and the pharmacies that serve them. Ending the retroactive nature of DIR fees would enable pharmacies to anticipate their costs and manage cash flow, both of which are impossible now as the fees are assessed long after the point of sale. The Coalition looks forward to working with CMS in strengthening and advancing this important rule, as well as working with members of Congress supporting legislation to further curb DIR fees.”