1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The joint ownership of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and pharmacies raises significant concerns about conflicts of interest and anti-competitive practices that ultimately harm patients. PBMs' power over drug pricing and access gives them immense influence, which could be abused to steer patients to their affiliated pharmacies at the expense of independent ones. This vertical integration limits choice and competition in the marketplace. The proposed Patients Before Monopolies Act seeks to address these issues by prohibiting PBMs and insurers from owning pharmacy businesses. This sensible measure would help restore fairness, increase transparency, and put patients' needs first instead of corporate profits. Independent pharmacies provide vital services to communities across the nation and should be able to compete on a level playing field. I urge you to support this bipartisan legislation. Untangling the current convoluted web of PBM-pharmacy ownership would promote affordability, access, and accountability in our healthcare system for the benefit of all Americans. Reining in these monopolistic practices is crucial for a truly patient-centered pharmaceutical supply chain.