U.S. Rep. Max Miller tours Discount Drug Mart in Ohio, focuses on PBM reform

On Aug. 20, U.S. Representative Max Miller (OH-7) visited Discount Drug Mart's Parma location to discuss the local retailer’s work in PBM advocacy. The retailer is the largest employer in the 7th Congressional District.

During the visit, Rep. Miller toured the store and pharmacy, engaging in discussions with Jackson Gilbride, a local pharmacist, and Bill Martin, a pharmacy supervisor overseeing multiple locations.‌

[Read more: NACDS CEO reiterates association’s fight against PBMs, makes push for provider status] 

The primary focus of the visit was PBM reform. Discount Drug Mart has been a vocal advocate for changes in this area, emphasizing the urgent need for DIR Fee Reform. 

"Over the past decade, DIR Fees have surged by more than 100,000%, a stark indicator of the growing power of PBMs, which now control over 80% of the market," said Steve Ferris, government & public affairs director for Discount Drug Mart.‌

Discount Drug Mart has participated in Capitol Hill Fly-Ins hosted by NACDS and NCPA to support legislation aimed at curtailing PBM tactics and abuses, Ferris added.

Rep. Miller, who has previously visited Discount Drug Mart’s corporate headquarters and distribution center, expressed appreciation for the insight gained during this latest tour. 

[Watch DSN: Community Unites for Discount Drug Mart’s Drug Take Back Day]

"Discount Drug Mart has been serving Ohioans for more than 50 years and is one of the largest employers in Ohio’s 7^th Congressional District," Miller said. "I recently visited Drug Mart’s Parma store, which is the company’s 78^th and newest location, and was able to hear firsthand some of the challenges facing pharmacies like Discount Drug Mart. Visits like that provide me with valuable information that I can take back to Washington to better serve our community.”

The visit underscored the company's ongoing dedication to advocating for legislative reforms aimed at curbing PBM practices.