New Missouri law provides access to medicine

(Jefferson City) — Governor Mike Parson recently announced Senate Bill 751 would become law that gives Missourians access to essential medicines within their communities through the federal government 340B Programwhereby pharmaceutical companies participating in Medicaid are required to sell outpatient medications at reduced prices to health care facilities that serve uninsured and poor patients.

This law is a counter to what proponents call the “restrictive measures” imposed by big pharmaceutical companies. It ensures that patients no longer have to travel long distances for treatment.

Karen White, CEO of Missouri Highlands Health Center, said the legislation is critical for women’s health care, especially in rural areas of the state.

“Without the 340B program, access to critical health care for women not only in the seven counties we serve, but also in underserved areas across the state, would be seriously compromised,” White said.

Drew Duncan, a lobbyist for drugmaker Pfizer, said that while his company supports the 340B program, it doesn’t provide patients with substantial savings. He added that the discounts manufacturers give are often not passed on to patients.

Despite some opposition, the bill received broad bipartisan support in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Joe Perle, CEO of the Missouri Primary Care Association, believes the impact will be felt across the state.

“Missourians can now have access to affordable prescriptions closer to home,” Perle emphasized. “Before this, Big Pharma had many limitations on the number of pharmacies we could contract with. It’s a huge win for all Missourians, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured.”

While proponents are celebrating the law as a victory for health care access, critics may worry about its long-term implications for pharmaceutical regulation. The measure is expected to benefit rural and underserved areas, where local pharmacies will play a critical role in maintaining health care services.