ISSUE: Should State Employees be required to use mail order to fill their maintenance prescription medications.

DISCUSSION: Last year, Florida adopted a policy which forces state employees to obtain their maintenance medications through mail order in an effort to control the costs associated with prescription drug plans. However, because of the competitive environment of retail pharmacy, it is doubtful that mail order plans offer a significant savings to the consumer; particularly when a retail pharmacy location can dispense a 90-day supply of medications at the same cost. Furthermore, it is clear that mandating the use of mail order pharmacy robs patients of vital interaction with their local community pharmacist. These highly trained experts provide guidance to patients on appropriate use of medications and offer a range of patient-oriented services to maximize a medication’s effectiveness.

POSITION: The Florida Retail Federation supports convenient, cost-effective access to prescription medications by authorizing Rep. Denise Grimsley (R-Sebring), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, and FRF President/CEO Rick McAllister share a laugh at the Capitol. FRF Issues Guide 2012final.indd 9 11/29/11 9:58 PM pharmacies to dispense 90-day maintenance prescription medications to State Employees.