Response from Congressman Denny Rehberg

Dear Eric :

Thank you for contacting me regarding protecting our community pharmacies, it's good to hear from you.

As you know, Montana 's independent and community pharmacies are facing a difficult business environment. Slow claims processing, low reimbursement rates, and an inability to negotiate prices on a level playing field with chain stores have put many of these small pharmacies out of business. That is why I have cosponsored two critical pieces of legislation, the Fair and Speedy Treatment (FAST) of Claims Act and the Community Pharmacy Fairness Act.

Independent pharmacies provide access to critical medications for many of Montana 's rural communities. However, due to a backlog in claims processing, many of these pharmacies aren't being reimbursed on time which can be devastating to business. This legislation would require these claims be processed quickly so independent pharmacies aren't being harmed.

The Fair and Speedy Treatment (FAST) of Claims Act of 2007 will ensure pharmacists are paid for their services in a timely manner by requiring Medicare Prescription Drug Plans to offer an electronic direct deposit for reimbursements to participating pharmacies. It also requires that claims submitted electronically must be paid within 14 days and all other claims be paid within 30 days.

The Community Pharmacy Fairness Act would grant independent pharmacies an exemption to anti-trust collusion regulations in regards to negotiating prices for their various medical supplies. Right now independent pharmacies are prohibited from sharing cost information or joint negotiations. However, larger chains such as CVS or Rite Aid do not face such restrictions. This bill would put the community pharmacies on the same level as the retail chains.

Both of these bills will benefit the more than 90 independent and community pharmacies in Montana . Rest assured that I will work tirelessly to provide timely economic relief to Montana 's small businesses.

Thanks again for contacting me. For further information or to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at www.house.gov/rehberg. Keep in touch.

Sincerely,

Denny Rehberg
Montana's Congressman