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In today's episode, we discuss creating real change at the legal reform level with Dr. Jeremy Counts, an independent pharmacist in Blacksburg, Virginia. Here is his pharmacy: https://countspharmacy.com/ .

Main Takeaway

Get out and talk with your politicians and join organizations that support fair practices for pharmacists, doctors, and patients. 

Additional Takeaways

• PBMs are a significant middleman in the drug supply chain.


• Pharmacists often fear retaliation from PBMs for speaking out.


• Hidden costs from PBMs inflate drug prices for patients.


• GoodRx operates as a third-party price-fixing scheme.


• Direct primary care can help patients access medications more affordably.


• Legislative efforts are crucial for pharmacy reform.


• The FTC is actively investigating PBM practices.


• Vertical integration of PBMs creates a lack of competition.


• Pharmacists need to push back against unfair practices.


• Accountability for PBMs is essential for a fair healthcare system. Jeremy Counts engaged with the FTC through advocacy work and communications.


• The importance of backing the FTC with evidence and support from healthcare professionals.


• Health economists often overlook the real-world complexities of healthcare pricing.


• Independent pharmacies must unite to survive against larger corporate entities.


• Transitioning to a cash-based model requires careful planning and market understanding.


• Pharmacists need to advocate for fair reimbursement to sustain their businesses.


• Building effective advocacy teams can amplify the impact of lobbying efforts.


• Grassroots movements are essential for pushing legislative changes in healthcare.


• Establishing relationships with lawmakers is crucial for effective advocacy.


• Pharmacists should not wait until their backs are against the wall to start advocating.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pharmacy Challenges
01:00 Understanding PBMs and Their Impact
03:48 Pharmacists' Fear and Retaliation
07:08 Hidden Costs of PBMs
10:58 The Role of GoodRx and Data Privacy
13:54 Direct Primary Care and Pharmacy Collaboration
17:01 Legislative Efforts Against PBMs
20:54 The FTC's Role and Future of Pharmacy Reform
24:47 Engaging with the FTC: A Call to Action
30:46 The Importance of Unity in Healthcare Advocacy
36:57 Building Effective Advocacy Teams
40:44 Current Legislative Efforts and Strategies
46:58 Empowering Pharmacists to Fight Back