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Canadian Drugs in Florida?

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A House bill promises lower costs to consumers

Even before we hit older age, we’re facing increasingly expensive prescription drug costs.  It’s an issue that Governor DeSantis and the Florida House are taking on this year.  Their idea is to import cheaper medications from Canada into Florida, with the goal of saving the state’s Medicaid program and individual Floridians millions of dollars a year.  But it will have to overcome skepticism in the Senate and win approval of the federal government to become a reality.

The plan is contained in HB 19 sponsored by Rep. Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach).  It would establish two separate import programs.  The Canadian Importation Program would allow the state to import drugs from Canada for use in the state’s Medicaid program and in state prisons.  The second program is the International Drug Importation Program, which would be run by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and available through pharmacies to individual residents.

Both programs would require approval from the federal Health and Human Services Administration but Governor DeSantis says he doesn’t see that as an ultimate obstacle given that the President is “enthused” about the idea.  Rep. Leek has phrased the argument as a choice between “patients over profits.”

A House staff analysis states that the United States overall spends 30%-190% more on prescription drugs than other developed countries.  Individual drugs cost 174% more on average for the exact same prescription outside the U.S.

HB 19 has passed two of its three committees, despite testimony from pharmaceutical companies warning the bill will lead to increases in counterfeit drugs that can be deadly.  A similar bill in the Senate (SB 1452) however, has not had a hearing.  Another Senate bill, SB 1528 by Senators Aaron Bean (R-Jacksonville) and Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) would authorize only the Canadian Importation Program.  The bill will be heard in its first committee this week.  Senate President Bill Galvano has expressed skepticism, saying authority for such a program lies with the federal government and not the states.

LMA Newsletter of 3-25-19

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Tags: Canadian drugs, Canadian Importation Program, drug pricing, International Drug Importation Program, pharmaceutical companies, pharmaceutical costs

“Just wanted to say that I thoroughly love your newsletter. It’s is always informative and insightful to the ins and outs of our industry.  You are an inspiration and an important asset in the insurance world.  Keep up the great work!” 

Cynthia Scott, President
University Insurance Group
Davie, FL

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Cynthia Hoehn, Independent Property & Casualty Personal Lines insurance agent
Clermont, FL

“Thank you Lisa for staying on top of, as well as advocating, for Florida residents and legislative reform. Your newsletters are very informative and enjoy reading the points of view.”  

Shawna Miller, Sr. Claims Quality Assurance & Compliance Manager
Florida Peninsula Insurance Company
Jacksonville, FL

“Another great Newsletter on Florida industry this week.  Your service and advocacy in Florida is very important to keeping me updated and apprised of the Florida insurance laws, trends and overall environment.  Something similar is very much needed in Louisiana, too.”

Jennifer Tedesco, Esq., Claims Director
Pharos Claims Services
Orlando, FL

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Bradenton, FL

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Acorn Claims
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Smart Vent Products, Floodproofing.com, & Risk Reduction Plus
Juno Beach, FL

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Zywave
Milwaukee, WI

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