Fee-for-service Medicaid pharmacy model is better

If there is anything the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, it is the importance of a robust health care system. Over the past year, we have seen many local hospitals overwhelmed with an influx of patients, and now there are concerns around the vaccine distribution effort to date. It has become clear that having the proper infrastructure in place is crucial to addressing public health and safety.

Fortunately, there are efforts right here in New York to improve our patient care: the Medicaid fee-for-service program, launching in May.

This will be a welcome change here in Albany, as our communities have been struggling with the current managed-care model. Under the existing system, many patients have been unable to visit nearby pharmacies, even ones located in their neighborhoods. I have heard from several constituents that they often have to travel miles just to pick up a prescription.

It shouldn't be this difficult to access necessary medications and treatments. If anything, we should be making it easier for patients to receive medical attention, especially in the midst of a global pandemic.

Other states that moved to a fee-for-service model have also saved millions from the carve-out. These funds would go far here in Albany and could service many local programs like transportation infrastructure and public education.

I'm writing to ask that

we all support the shift toward a fee-for-service Medicaid pharmacy benefit. This transition needs to take place exactly as planned without changes or delay. Our community cannot afford further roadblocks, especially today.

Sheriff Craig D. Apple Sr.

Albany