Patient Right to Shop Act

The Patient Right to Shop Act (S 1374) prohibits health plans and insurers from entering contracts with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that block third-party tools helping consumers compare prescription drug costs, including out-of-pocket expenses, copays, coinsurance, and savings options like manufacturer assistance. It requires PBMs to provide necessary cost data in machine-readable format at no cost to health plans, insurers, or the tools themselves. The law applies to group health plans and individual health insurance coverage, effective for plan years starting two years after enactment. This policy change ensures consumers can access transparent, comprehensive cost information when choosing medications.