Tucson Standard

SaddleBrooke, AZ - U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani recently visited Desert Life Pharmacy in SaddleBrooke to engage with patients and emphasize his support for rural pharmacies. These pharmacies are vital to the health of their communities, especially as two rural pharmacies in Willcox and Benson face closure due to what they describe as restrictive practices by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).

Ciscomani stated, “Local independent pharmacies are critical to rural communities as they are often the only medical provider for hundreds of miles.” He highlighted the unique personal connection local pharmacists have with their communities, which large chains or mail-order services cannot replicate. The congressman expressed concern about pharmacy closures forcing residents to travel long distances for healthcare, placing an undue burden on those with limited resources.

Independent pharmacies struggle against larger corporations that can direct patients away from community pharmacies. This issue is compounded by the fact that three major PBMs control 80% of the market.

In September 2024, Ciscomani addressed this issue in a speech before the House of Representatives following reports of pharmacy closures in Willcox and Benson. In December 2023, he supported the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act (H.R. 5378), aimed at increasing transparency and accountability among PBMs regarding drug costs. This bill passed with bipartisan support.

Additionally, in July 2023, Ciscomani cosponsored the PATIENT Act of 2023 (H.R. 3561), which seeks to enhance price transparency for insurers, PBMs, and manufacturers.