Florida bill aims to cut prescription costs, pharmacists voice concerns

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA — House Bill 697 could soon change how prescription drug prices are set in Florida. The bill aims to lower the costs people pay for their medications.

Proposing a "most favored nation" pricing system, the bill would have the state reference medication costs in other countries to set price limits in Florida.

Supporters believe this could provide relief to patients. However, pharmacists are expressing concerns over its implementation.

"So at first, it looks great, like, Hey, we're going to lower the amount people pay for prescriptions," said Justin Ceravolo, a pharmacist. "But from a pharmacy perspective, it didn't really address if the costs for us to purchase the medications is going to go down."

Ceravolo, who owns a pharmacy, explained that the main concern is whether pharmacies will be able to afford the medications at the new prices.

"Independent pharmacies are going to take the biggest hit," said Ceravolo. "The trouble is, is the pharmacy going to be able to purchase it at that new price? If the pharmacy can’t get it at a price that’s below what the patient’s supposed to pay, then it’s not going to be accessible."

Bob Redar, a 20-year Florida resident, supports the bill's efforts to make prescriptions more affordable.

"Well, I think it's important for everybody if we can save some money on prescriptions, it will help the whole community for sure," said Redar.

The bill has passed the House Budget Committee and is now on its way to the Health and Human Services Committee. If approved there, it will move to the full House for a vote.