Congressman Discusses PBM Reform and Transparent Practices | McKesson ideaShare

In an interview at McKesson ideaShare, Congressman Buddy Carter (R-GA), BSPharm, discussed several key legislative initiatives aimed at reforming pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and improving health care accessibility. One bill of interest is the PBM Accountability Act of 2025, which is comprised of 4 PBM bills designed to increase transparency and reduce health care costs for all parties. In the proposed legislation, it includes measures to prohibit spread pricing in Medicaid, provide transparency for employers and plan sponsors, and restructure PBM compensation models.

Carter emphasized the role of pharmacists, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and advocated for pharmacist provider status, stating that approximately 90% of Americans live within 5 miles of a pharmacy. This makes pharmacists the most accessible health care professionals, and he stressed the importance of allowing health care professionals to practice at the top of their licenses, with physicians remaining the "quarterback" of health care teams but continuing to utilize all health professionals effectively.

He also touched on state-level reforms, praising Arkansas for legislation prohibiting PBMs from owning pharmacies. Despite some setbacks, Carter remained optimistic about ongoing health care reform efforts. He encouraged pharmacists to continue advocating for their profession by engaging with members of Congress, inviting them to practice settings, and demonstrating the value they bring to health care. The proposed legislative package aims to save billions in health care costs while increasing transparency and accountability in PBM practices. In this approach, Carter emphasizes a comprehensive strategy to make health care more accessible, affordable, and transparent for all Americans.

"I am so proud of our profession," Carter said. "I'm so proud of how we stepped up and provided health care to people who truly needed it during the time when accessibility to health care was really impacted, and yes, we do deserve to have provider status."