Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson announced today that he has signed on to two important initiatives for local pharmacies. Simpson is cosponsoring H.R. 971, the Community Pharmacy Fairness Act and H.R. 1474, the Fair and Speedy Treatment (FAST) of Claims Act of 2007.
 
The Community Pharmacy Fairness Act (H.R. 971) would allow independent pharmacies the same leverage that much larger chains enjoy when negotiating their Medicare Part D and other third-party contracts. “Many people find talking to their pharmacist about their prescriptions very informative and helpful,” Simpson said. “It is unfortunate that local pharmacies have not been able to band together to negotiate lower prices for customers, this legislation will help lesson this unfair gap.”
 
The FAST Claims Act of 2007 (H.R. 1474) would assist local pharmacies in receiving a more timely payment so they are not forced to operate on overhead due to delayed reimbursements. “Independent pharmacists are struggling to serve their communities because Medicare Part D payments are taking so long to receive,” Simpson said. “These pharmacies should not have to shoulder these costs for excessive amounts of time, I’m hopeful this legislation will ensure reimbursement claims are handled properly.”
 
Congressman Simpson has spoken with independent pharmacists from Idaho on numerous occasions, including in a meeting he had today, where he learned how valuable these pieces of legislation will be to their industry.
 
H.R. 971 has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee and H.R. 1474 has been referred to the House Energy and Commerce and the Ways and Means Committee.