PBM Principles on Patient Access to Prescription Drugs During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During this public health emergency, PBMs are committed to helping the patients we serve practice social distancing and stay at home safely with convenient, reliable access to their needed prescription drugs.
As patients evaluate their prescription drug needs, we are providing clinical services and other supports, and encourage patients to consult government guidance and, as needed, their health care providers.
All stakeholders in the prescription drug supply chain have an important role in balancing patient access and continuity of care now and avoiding drug shortages and supply disruptions in the future.
PBMs promote the following principles for enabling patient access and managing against supply chain disruptions.
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PBMs, other drug supply chain stakeholders and federal, state, and local government partners should work together to sustain access to care for patients and prevent drug shortages.
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PBMs recommend multiple approaches be made available that ensure patients have access to their prescription drugs now and in the days ahead, by balancing convenient, reliable access – such as home delivery and additional supply on hand – with the potential for drug shortages.
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PBMs recommend guidance from federal, state, and local government agencies that balances patients’ need to stay at home, the clinical appropriateness of supply for any given drug, and the need to prevent future drug shortages.
Click here to read the letter
Click here to read PCMA’s statement
Click here to find out how PBMs are taking action to promote patient access to prescription drugs during this pandemic.
America’s Prescription Drug Supply Chain Stands Together to Help Patients Access Medications
Members of the prescription drug supply and payment chain, including pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmacies, including specialty and managed care pharmacy, and health plans, sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and Congressional leaders affirming the safety and resiliency of the drug supply chain, and calling for public-private collaboration to keep the supply chain functioning well throughout this unprecedented health system challenge.
Pharmacy Benefit Managers Stand With Rx Supply Chain to Help Patients Access Medications
As the nation’s health care system confronts the myriad challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are working with all members of the prescription drug supply and payment chain to help patients obtain the medications they need during this public health crisis. Click here to read PCMA’s full statement.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions regarding COVID-19