What New York Pharmacies Should Know About the Pharmacy Benefits Bureau’s Verified Complaint Process
Since New York’s Pharmacy Benefits Bureau (“Bureau”) was first established in May 2022, Frier Levitt has been monitoring all developments related to the Bureau including its subsequent regulation of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (“PBM”). As part of the Bureau’s oversight responsibilities and to encourage reporting of PBM abuse, the Bureau has created a Verified Complaint process.
Who Can File a Verified Complaint?
New York allows any corporation, firm, association, or individual to file a Verified Complaint about issues involving a PBM.
What Pharmacies Should Know About the Verified Complaint Process
It is critical to retain competent legal counsel to assist with the Verified Complaint process to ensure that the issue(s) at hand are addressed effectively. Having competent legal counsel to assist in this process ensures that the Verified Complaint is submitted properly and thoroughly addresses the many threshold issues that the Bureau will assess in investigating the complaint. Some of these threshold issues include assessing whether the Bureau has jurisdiction over the issue, as well as the veracity of the Verified Complaint. It is also important to understand that in investigating a Verified Complaint, the Bureau will likely involve the PBM. These and other related issues emphasize the importance of having legal counsel assist in the Verified Complaint process to facilitate a productive discourse with the Bureau. The process, while less formal than court or other legal proceedings, should be taken just as seriously.
How Frier Levitt Can Help
Frier Levitt’s vast experience representing New York pharmacies in matters and disputes involving PBMs, including assisting with the Verified Complaint Process, allows us to adequately prepare and submit comprehensive Verified Complaints to the Bureau. Frier Levitt takes the necessary steps to ensure that any information needed by the Bureau is promptly provided on behalf of our clients. Contact us to speak with a member of our team.
