Bill 118 hr 5393, also known as the Pharmacy DIR Reform Act of 2021, aims to make changes to Medicare Part D in order to ensure fair assessment of pharmacy performance and quality. The bill seeks to address the issue of Direct and Indirect Remuneration (DIR) fees, which are fees that pharmacies must pay to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) after the point of sale.
The bill proposes several key changes to the current system. First, it would require PBMs to provide more transparency in their pricing practices, specifically in regards to DIR fees. This would help pharmacies better understand and anticipate the fees they will be charged, leading to more accurate pricing for consumers.
Additionally, the bill aims to reform the way in which pharmacy performance is assessed under Medicare Part D. It would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to take into account factors such as patient outcomes and quality measures when evaluating pharmacy performance, rather than just focusing on cost.
Overall, the Pharmacy DIR Reform Act of 2021 seeks to create a more fair and transparent system for pharmacies participating in Medicare Part D. By addressing the issue of DIR fees and improving the assessment of pharmacy performance, the bill aims to ensure that patients have access to high-quality and affordable medications.