DIR fees tops list of legislative concerns among independents

The fourth annual survey of National Community Pharmacists Association members reveals that direct and indirect remuneration (DIR) fees are the top legislative or regulatory obstacle for community pharmacists. According to NCPA CEO Douglas Hoey, "This year's top priorities are tied to the questionable business practices of lightly-regulated PBM corporations. Complaints about DIR fees have skyrocketed, so it is not surprising that reining in PBM clawbacks would top the list. The second and third highest ranked priorities are long-standing, PBM-generated challenges—the lack of transparency with generic prescription drug reimbursements and Medicare Part D's 'preferred pharmacy' plans that prevent independent community pharmacy patients from having access to discounted copays." He noted NCPA is equally focused on the changed political landscape and potentially significant changes in health care. "As a result, we will make sure the voice of independent community pharmacies is heard," Hoey added.