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Bill

HB 1665

Pharmacy Benefit Prompt Pay Act and State Health Insurance Plan; revise.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Hank Zuber

HB 1665 requires faster pharmacy claim reimbursement from insurers and pharmacy benefit managers to maintain medication access and independent pharmacy viability.

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Bill Summary · HB 1665

Legislative bill overview

HB 1665 revises Mississippi's pharmacy benefit regulations and state health insurance plan requirements, focusing on prompt payment obligations for pharmacy claims. The bill establishes faster payment timelines and requirements for pharmacy benefit managers and health insurers when processing prescription drug claims.

Why is this important

Delays in pharmacy reimbursement can force independent pharmacies to absorb costs or reduce services, potentially affecting medication access in underserved areas. Faster payment requirements help maintain pharmacy viability and ensure continuous patient access to prescription medications across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry cost impact: Insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers may argue that accelerated payment timelines increase administrative burden and costs, potentially leading to higher premiums
  • Definition of "prompt": Disagreement likely exists over what constitutes acceptable payment timeframes and whether proposed deadlines are operationally feasible
  • Small vs. large pharmacies: Implementation could disproportionately affect smaller independent pharmacies lacking automated claims processing systems compared to large chains with sophisticated infrastructure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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