Protecting Mental Health: Why This New Law Could Be Counterproductive

In Colorado, mental health is a top priority. Organizations like Building Hope are expanding access to counseling and support services. However, for many, mental health care is incomplete without medication.

This brings us to the “Most Favored Nation” drug pricing rule proposed by former President Donald Trump. This rule could tie U.S. prescription prices to those in countries with different healthcare systems. While it aims to reduce costs, it might also limit options and slow down the development of new mental health treatments. Many people in Colorado are awaiting these advancements that could greatly enhance their lives. It’s important not to risk the progress we’ve made in mental health.

But there’s a bigger issue at play. Patients often face frustrating hurdles with how prescriptions are managed. Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) have a lot of control over which medications are covered. Their influence can conflict with what doctors prescribe, causing confusion and instability in treatment plans.

For true improvement in mental health care, we need to focus on these PBMs. Addressing their control could lead to better outcomes for patients, instead of restricting access to medical innovations. Recent research shows that more than 80% of Americans have faced issues with their prescriptions due to PBM policies. It’s time to put patients back at the center of healthcare decisions.

For more insights into how PBMs affect medication costs and access, check out the latest reports from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

In Summit County and beyond, the goal should be clear: improve mental health care by tackling the real obstacles, not by undermining the advancements that have been made.

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