The federal government has approved the payment plan proposed by the state that would reimburse chains with 11 or more stores at one rate, while owners with ten or fewer stores are reimbursed at a different rate. Even with the change, Medicaid will still be paying more than what a private HMO would pay for the very same drug. For months we repeatedly asked the industry to show us a realistic alternative plan. The savings will allow Medicaid to better meet the medical needs of all citizens. This announcement that die company may discriminate against some of the neediest Arkansans is a stark reminder that actions speak louder than words.
Medicaid business brings thousands of customers into hundreds of Arkansas pharmacies.
These customers spend countless dollars on non-drug purchases. The Arkansas Department of Human Services will do everything possible to protect the financial and health care rights of these citizens who merely want to get a prescription filled. The department oversees the state Medicaid, juvenile justice, child protective, aging, nursing home, childcare and blind services programs.