PCMA issues statement on a provision in the U.S. Senate's small business legislation

Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA) President and CEO Mark Merritt issued the following statement today on a provision in the U.S. Senate's small business legislation that would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to work with outside companies to target fraud, waste, and abuse in states across the country:

“Along with these initiatives, policymakers must reject policies that inadvertently weaken the ability of public and private payers to detect and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. It's far easier to prevent fraud than to engage in 'pay and chase' activities after the fact.”

"Following the passage of health reform, an increased emphasis on overall program integrity and safeguarding taxpayer money is more important than ever. Focusing on preventing fraud, waste, and abuse is integral to these efforts.

"Along with these initiatives, policymakers must reject policies that inadvertently weaken the ability of public and private payers to detect and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. It's far easier to prevent fraud than to engage in 'pay and chase' activities after the fact."

SOURCE Pharmaceutical Care Management Association