CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio – Right now, health care in Ohio is both promising and concerning. Innovations are changing how we treat illnesses and helping many people live longer. Yet, rising costs are a big worry. A recent survey found that 80% of Ohioans are anxious about affording health care in the future. Among small business owners, that worry climbs to nearly 100%.
Lawmakers in the General Assembly are trying to tackle these rising costs. However, past attempts, like House Bill 505, haven’t hit the mark. This bill aimed to increase fees on prescription medications, which some thought would help independent pharmacies. But these new fees could make health care even more expensive for consumers.
Lawmakers need to shift their focus from adding fees to genuinely addressing why health care is so costly in the first place.
Recently, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy introduced a new interactive tool to track pharmacy trends statewide. In 2024, while several large chain pharmacies closed (Rite Aid alone shut down over 180 stores), the news is brighter for independent pharmacies. Not one independent pharmacy closed last year, and 34 new ones opened up. This resilience shows that independent pharmacies remain crucial to our communities, providing essential services that even those at the doctor’s office may not offer.
Pharmacists are often more accessible than primary care doctors, making it easy for patients to ask about medications or get a flu shot. A report from the American Pharmacists Association highlights that patients engage with pharmacists about twice as often as with their physicians. This interaction can significantly improve patient care and convenience.
The upward trend in independent pharmacies is encouraging, especially as consumers seek more personalized service. However, increasing fees, as suggested by some proposals, could inadvertently make health care less accessible for many.
Support for local businesses, particularly independent pharmacies, is essential. But many of the current legislative proposals aimed at reducing costs might backfire, making prices higher instead.
As a message to lawmakers: Focus on real solutions that target the root of high health care costs. Let’s work together to create plans that truly help Ohioans afford the care they need without burdening small businesses.
Cindy Holzheimer, president and CEO of Northern Ohio Area Chambers of Commerce, represents 140 chambers of commerce throughout the state. Understanding the challenges of the growing health care landscape in Ohio is crucial, and finding balanced solutions will ultimately benefit everyone.
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