Rep. Tom Rice (R-SC) got a detailed briefing on exactly why provider status legislation (H.R. 592) is so important in South Carolina during a “Coffee with Your Congressman” event attended by NACDS RxIMPACT in Darlington, S.C., on August 11.
When you get a chance to let your congressman to know why legislation is important to you, it’s good to back it up with some compelling numbers.
On Tuesday, Brian Clark, RPh., representing BI-LO, a division of Southeastern Grocers, and the pharmacy profession as a delegate for the South Carolina Pharmacy Association, gave some key points on pro-pharmacy issues at a “Coffee with Your Congressman” event NACDS RxIMPACT attended. As an advocate for the Pharmacy and Medically Underserved Enhancement Act (H.R. 592), Clark immediately put the significance of the legislation in perspective by letting Rep. Tom Rice (R-SC) know that according to the Department of Health and Human Services, 43 of the 46 counties in South Carolina are medically underserved. That’s key because H.R. 592 would expand access and payment for Medicare Part B services by state-licensed pharmacists in medically-underserved communities.
During his remarks at the event, Clark emphasized the growing need for expanding access to care and pointed out that pharmacists are prepared to fill existing gaps. He also spoke about where pharmacists’ services are expanding—into disease state management, immunizations and medication therapy management.
When you have a lawmaker’s ear on a key issue, let him know just exactly why the bill will positively impact his constituents. That’s a message that resonates.
Want to became a pharmacy advocate insider and keep up-to-date on issues and resources that affect the industry? Join the NACDS RxIMPACT Pharmacy Advocacy group on LinkedIn!
