Bipartisan Bill Reforming PBMs, Extending Telehealth Flexibility and Funding Healthcare Services

Lawmakers have recently introduced a bipartisan agreement to fund the government, which includes crucial healthcare reform provisions[1][2]. This includes a two-year extension on Medicare's telehealth flexibilities, maintaining advancements made during the COVID-19 pandemic to promote broader access to virtual healthcare[1]. Central to the legislative package is significant reform to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), mandating they pass 100% of rebates back to Medicare and group health plans and increase transparency through detailed reporting of prescription drug spending[2].

By prioritizing transparency and access, the reform aims to potentially lower drug costs, although the direct impact on patient expenses remains to be clearly seen[1]. Additionally, the legislation averts Medicaid payment cuts, sustains Medicare services in rural areas, and boosts funding for community health centers[2].