McKinley Stands Up for Patients and Fights to Protect Rural Pharmacies

Press Release

Today, Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. joined fellow members of the Energy and Commerce Committee by approving the Safeguarding America's Pharmaceuticals Act of 2013 (H.R. 1919).

"This bill will help protect patients from harm by ensuring that counterfeit or stolen drugs do not enter the supply chain," said Rep. McKinley. "This bipartisan, common sense piece of legislation will secure America's pharmaceutical supply."

The legislation sets out guidelines on how pharmacies monitor drugs from the manufacturer to the patient. Additionally, the bill contains language that would allow prescription drug labeling to be provided by electronic means. This section contains a protection requested by Rep. McKinley that would ensure pharmacies still have the option to receive printed materials upon request.

"Some pharmacists in the rural parts of West Virginia don't have access to the same technology that is found in urban areas," said Rep. McKinley, "Rural Americans shouldn't be deprived of crucial medical information. While moving to electronic labeling will save money, it's important small, rural pharmacies are protected. This legislation ensures that vital information will still be included with prescriptions if requested."

Source