LEARN HOW TO GET HEALTHY: www.drtomrountree.com
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/ .
Get out and talk with your politicians and join organizations that support fair practices for pharmacists, doctors, and patients.
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.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