This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning pharmacy benefit managers and their relationship with pharmacies. It introduces a new section, 32-1932, which prohibits pharmacy benefit managers from holding any direct or indirect interest in pharmacies that sell prescription drugs. The Arizona State Board of Pharmacy is tasked with revoking or not renewing permits for entities that violate this prohibition. Additionally, the bill allows for the issuance of limited service pharmacy permits for rare or orphaned drugs that are otherwise unavailable, along with establishing processes for notifying the board about such drugs and requesting permits.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the board to conduct assessments of active pharmacy permits and notify those that may be in violation of the new regulations. It requires pharmacies to inform patients and healthcare providers about their inability to dispense retail drugs if they are found to be in violation. The bill also clarifies the definition of a pharmacy benefit manager and outlines specific exceptions for certain pharmacy employers. Overall, these changes aim to enhance oversight and ensure that pharmacies operate independently from pharmacy benefit managers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-1932