Insight

Debra Patt: The Urgent Need for Policy Reform in Pharmacy Benefit Management

Collage photo of Debra Patt and Jeff Hunnicutt

Aug 7, 2025, 18:50

Debra Patt: The Urgent Need for Policy Reform in Pharmacy Benefit Management

Debra Patt, Executive Vice President of Policy, Strategic Initiatives at Texas Oncology, President of Community Oncology Alliance, and Chair of AI Task Force at American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), shared a post on LinkedIn:

“The Urgent Need for Policy Reform in Pharmacy Benefit Management.

As healthcare costs continue to soar, it’s important to reform the practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). Currently, many PBMs engage in practices that limit patient choice and inflate prescription drug prices—contributing to higher overall healthcare costs.

Policy reform is essential to promote transparency, foster competition, and put patients at the center of healthcare decision-making. By addressing these issues, we can ensure fair pricing, expand access to essential medications, and ultimately create a more equitable healthcare system.

Let’s advocate for policies that prioritize patient well-being and work toward a sustainable, affordable future for all.”

Douglas Flora, Executive Medical Director of Oncology Services at St. Elizabeth Healthcare and President-Elect of the Association of Cancer Care Centers, shared this post, adding:

“Strong piece here from Debra Patt and Jeff Hunnicutt. This one should be read by all and shared WIDELY. We can’t improve healthcare outcomes without addressing this important issue.

Thanks, DP and Jeff, for your leadership here!”

Title: Op-Ed: States Are Leading the Way on PBM Reform. Here’s How.

Authors: Debra Patt, Jeff Hunnicutt

You can read the full article on Pharmacy Times.

Debra Patt: The Urgent Need for Policy Reform in Pharmacy Benefit Management