The Clear Health Podcast

018 - Jeremy Counts - Fighting for Real Change for Drug Pricing

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Join the Fight against PBMs: https://www.truthrx.org/

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

    ...more
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    The Clear Health PodcastBy Tom Rountree DO