The drug industry this week celebrated its first federal appeals court victory against a state 340B contract pharmacy access law—a ruling which could face additional challenges, including before the U.S. Supreme Court, reports Shannon Young at 340B Report.
The court ruling blocking West Virginia’s 340B contract pharmacy law sparked strong concern from providers and advocacy groups. Advocates for Community Health, through its SVP of Policy & Government Affairs Stephanie Krenrich, voiced opposition to the decision in a statement sent to 340B Report.
Krenrich emphasized that the 340B program, and the ability to use contract pharmacies, is essential for community health centers, many of which lack in-house pharmacies. She underscored the importance of protecting access to affordable medications for vulnerable patients. She also added, “We are grateful to the states, like West Virginia, who are seeking to preserve covered entities’ rights against unlawful actions that restrict access to affordable medications, and will continue to support their efforts.”