Ohio representative expresses concern about 'preferred pharmacy' networks' effects on independents

WASHINGTON — A member of Congress is raising concerns about "preferred pharmacy" Medicare drug plans, according to an Alexandria, Va.-based trade group that represents independent pharmacies.

In a blog post Thursday, the National Community Pharmacists Association discussed a recent letter sent to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, in which he wrote: "Over the last few months, I have been hearing increasing concerns from Medicare beneficiaries and small business owners in my congressional district regarding Medicare Part D plans that feature preferred pharmacy networks. As these networks grow and expand in number, I am concerned that they could lead to a decrease in access to quality care and threaten the survival of small business pharmacies that play a vital role in our communities."