The National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) has announced the launch of a new program designed to assist state pharmacy associations in advancing legislation that benefits both pharmacies and patients. The initiative, called the NCPA State Panel of Experts, will provide state associations with access to leading policy and legal professionals specializing in key areas such as ERISA and health plan benefit design, enforcement of pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) regulations, Medicaid programs, drug pricing and supply chain issues, as well as communications and grassroots advocacy.
NCPA CEO B. Douglas Hoey commented on the importance of supporting state-level efforts: “Whether they’re fighting to change the pharmacy payment model and abusive PBM practices, pushing to advance pharmacists’ ability to practice at the top of their license, or serving the interests of their members in any other way, state pharmacy associations across the country do remarkable work, especially considering the limited resources and bandwidth they may have,” said Hoey. “In addition to our federal and regulatory efforts, NCPA has also historically invested in state efforts to support independent pharmacy. We’re pleased to be adding this more formalized, free tool to support the work of our state colleagues.”
The State Panel of Experts is offered at no cost as an extension of services already provided by NCPA’s state government affairs team. State associations can request help through an application process that begins with a short intake survey. After review by NCPA staff for scope and expert availability, approved requests will result in direct coordination between the association and a selected expert. The program receives support from the Compliant Pharmacy Alliance (CPA).
Founded in 1898, NCPA represents over 18,900 community pharmacies nationwide employing more than 235,000 individuals. Community pharmacies are considered among America’s most accessible healthcare providers. More information about NCPA’s State Panel of Experts can be found on their website at www.ncpa.org.
Alerts Sign-up