NACDS discusses opioids in meeting with HHS Sec. Price

ARLINGTON, Va. — National Association of Chain Drug Stores president and CEO Steve Anderson on Monday participated in a meeting with Health and Human Services Sec. Tom Price about pharmacy’s engagement in solutions to the opioid epidemic.

“NACDS appreciates Secretary Price’s outreach, his sincere desire to learn more about pharmacy’s current role in addressing opioid issues, and his interest in identifying opportunities for HHS to assist in these efforts,” Anderson said. “With all parties acknowledging the tremendous impact inflicted by this issue on communities and families across the nation, we had an excellent discussion about the extensive collaboration and focus that is needed to help solve the problem. We value the Secretary’s appreciation of pharmacy’s zero tolerance for drug abuse and diversion and its 100-percent commitment to patient care.

Anderson said that NACDS' comments shared with the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis were discussed in the meeting. Following the release of the Commission’s preliminary report, Anderson had called for a “national curiosity” around the issue.