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As healthcare leaders, staff and their patients advocate for House Bill 2371 SA 2—the Patient Access to Pharmacy Protection Act—some who are against restoring the federal 340B program in Illinois have mischaracterized “both the purpose of the 340B Drug Pricing Program and the realities facing Illinois hospitals,” said IHA President and CEO A.J. Wilhelmi in a recent Crain’s op-ed.

Illinois hospitals face unprecedented financial headwinds, including higher costs and inadequate reimbursement. At the same time, drug prices continue to rise while pharmaceutical manufacturers reduce access to drug discounts required by federal law.

“Pharmaceutical manufacturers — many located overseas, earning tens of billions of dollars in annual profits — are actively working to restrict hospital access to 340B discounts. Limiting these resources does not lower drug prices; it reduces the ability of providers to deliver care to those who need it most,” Wilhelmi wrote.

Illinois hospitals and Federally Qualified Health Centers are united in supporting HB 2371 SA 2, which does not require state money. The bill would protect 340B so safety net providers can continue supporting patients and communities. “Weakening this program would not help patients — it would reduce access to care and strain an already fragile healthcare system,” Wilhelmi said.

Cutting funding for hospitals operating on thin to negative margins will have devasting effects on patients. VOTE YES on HB 2371 SA 2. Learn more.