Iowa Pharmacists Announce Latest Polling in Support of PBM Reform

• By: IPA
• On: 02/05/2025 16:07:31
• In: Press Releases
• Comments: 0

The Iowa Pharmacy Association hosted nearly two hundred pharmacists and pharmacy students from across the state at the Iowa State Capitol for their legislative day on the hill. The group held a press conference and called on legislators to pass Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) reform.
 
The PBM reform legislation (HSB 99 / SSB 1074) was introduced in the House and Senate last week, and both identical bills passed out of their respective subcommittees today. “This legislation will restore choice for patients across Iowa and ensure PBMs reimburse pharmacies for prescription drugs in a sustainable, transparent way,” said Kate Gainer, CEO of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. “2024 saw 29 pharmacies close in Iowa, and without PBM reform, we will continue to see a decline in pharmacy access for Iowans across the state. PBMs also leverage their position to dictate prescription drug placement on their formularies through a rebate process that artificially increases drug prices for consumers and plan sponsors alike.”
 
The Iowa Pharmacy Association announced the latest poll results on the issue of PBM reform, exhibiting resounding support among Iowans for PBM reform.¹

• 96% of Iowa voters say access to health care is important to their vote in state elections.
• 94% of Iowa voters say the ability to choose their healthcare provider is important to their vote.
• 4 in 5 Iowa voters believe it's important for the Iowa General Assembly to take action to address concerns related to PBMs.
• Nearly 3 in 4 Iowa voters say the General Assembly should consider PBM reform to be ‘must-pass legislation' in 2025.

 
Complete results of the statewide poll can be found here: https://patientsfirst.org/iowa
 
“These poll results make clear the issues impacting healthcare access are top of mind for Iowa voters. Countless Iowans have seen their local pharmacy disappear or their freedom to choose how they receive lifesaving medication negatively impacted,” said Wes Pilkington, pharmacy owner from Evansdale, Iowa. “These results are a direct reflection of Iowans' desire for change. The legislature must act to hold PBMs accountable and restore fairness to our healthcare system.”