The 340B Drug Pricing Program was enacted by Congress in 1992. The program requires that pharmaceutical companies give safety-net and rural healthcare providers discounts on their drugs, in exchange for having their drugs covered by Medicaid. This program was enacted to protect low-income and underprivileged communities from the threat of skyrocketing prices on drugs. The 340B Program lowers prescription drug costs and saves money for seniors and families, especially those in rural and underserved communities.
Preserving Rules Ordered for the Entities Covered Through (PROTECT) 340B Act is in response to many healthcare providers concerns that they have seen access to the 340B program threatened by pharmaceutical companies. This bill would prohibit pharmaceutical companies from discriminating against 340B providers.
Hamilton Community Health Network is a proud Community Health Center that provides services and medications through the 340B Act. Hamilton is able to provide the services we do at a sliding scale fee due to the coverage of costs we receive through the 340B Act. We are currently trying to make noise and get the support of Congress to pass the PROTECT 340B Act.
Health centers rely on contract pharmacies more than other safety-net providers in 340B. Over 86% of health centers utilize contract pharmacies, including health centers with in-house pharmacies, this includes us. As a health centers, we also partner with independent pharmacies to provide access to discounted or free medications using our discount programs funded by 340B savings.
Being a health center, we are able to give back and support our community in so many ways. Without the 340B Act, we wouldn’t be able to do half of what we do. It is important we get the support of Congress now. Help us make some noise surrounding 340B and push Congress to protect health centers and their communities.
