In this episode our hosts sit down with Tennessee State Senator Shane Reeves, a pharmacist-turned-legislator, to discuss his journey from pharmacy to public office. Senator Reeves shares his firsthand insights into the obstacles pharmacists face in patient care and policy, the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and why transparency in health care pricing is crucial for patients. He also breaks down his legislative efforts to support independent pharmacies, improve medication adherence, and advocate for patient-first policies.

Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intersection of health care and policy, and why patients should build strong relationships with their pharmacists.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:14: Sen. Reeves shares how his father’s role as both a pharmacist and public servant inspired his own path into politics

02:07: Sen. Reeves discusses the unique presence of multiple pharmacists in the Tennessee State Senate and how it benefits health care legislation

03:10: Sen. Reeves explains the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in the health care system and how their increasing control has negatively impacted pharmacists and patients

04:39: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss how PBMs evolved from cost controllers to powerful entities influencing patient care decisions

05:34: Sen. Reeves describes his legislative efforts to prevent “patient steering,” ensuring prescriptions are filled at the provider or patient’s preferred pharmacy

07:18: Sen. Reeves emphasizes the lack of price transparency in health care and provides an example from Singapore, explaining how full health care price transparency allows patients to know the costs of medical services upfront in contrast with the U.S. where prices are often hidden until after services are rendered

08:06: Sen. Reeves discusses the impact of PBMs on independent pharmacies and the struggle to keep small, community-based pharmacies in business

09:12: Steven and Sen. Reeves discuss the real-life consequences of PBMs interfering in patient care, including delayed access to life-saving medications

09:51: Sen. Reeves shares his advocacy for better medication adherence and the role of pharmacists in helping patients stay on track

12:15: Zoe and Steven reflect on the discussion, emphasizing the importance of having legislators with health care expertise in office

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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