NACDS holds virtual fly-in with administration, Congressional leaders

The NACDS board of directors on Wednesday met virtually with seven key members of the Trump administration and Congress. The organization's virtual fly-in took the place of in-person meetings that leaders from the NACDS board typically conduct in Washington in late June. 

Distance and the COVID-19 pandemic did not keep the board from meeting with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma; U.S. Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., Bill Cassidy, R-La.; and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa; and U.S. Reps. Morgan Griffith, R-Va., Kurt Schrader, D-Ore., and Peter Welch, D-Vt.

The meetings centered on the array of policies essential to pharmacy's COVID-19 response and on pharmacy reimbursement reforms — including DIR fee relief — that NACDS said are essential to patient access and pharmacy viability.

"We greatly appreciate the opportunity to remain connected with leaders in government, and to discuss the policy actions necessary to maximize pharmacy's preparedness and impact for patients and communities throughout the pandemic," said NACDS president and CEO Steve Anderson. "Maintaining dialogue with lawmakers during these uncommon times is vital. Pharmacies and pharmacists have an irreplaceable role to play in the COVID-19 response, and in restoring health to our communities and our economy."

Board members' continued engagement with leaders of the executive and legislative branches comes at a time of transition in the pandemic and its response — especially as the nation reopens and prepares for a potential second wave of coronavirus and a fast-approaching flu season.