Senate Panel Approves McIlhinney Prescription Assistance Legislation

HARRISBURG – The Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee unanimously approved legislation today that would expand prescription drug access for low-income Pennsylvanians.

The Keystone Care Prescription Assistance Act (KeyCare), sponsored by Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-Bucks and Montgomery), would make low-cost prescription drugs available through the state’s community-based health care clinics. The program would link low-income adults who lack prescription drug coverage to the appropriate free or low-cost prescription assistance programs.

Senate Bill 335 would also direct the state Department of Welfare to maintain a registry of free and low-cost prescription drug programs and make the information available online. The registry would include free prescription drugs provided by pharmaceutical manufacturers to community-based health care clinics.

"The cost of prescription drugs is a serious concern for many families who are struggling just to make ends meet," McIlhinney said. "The KeyCare program would help thousands of uninsured individuals get access to the prescription drugs they need at a minimal cost."

Senate Bill 335 is part of the 15-bill HealthNET PA package introduced by Senate Republicans to help expand health care services for uninsured Pennsylvanians.

The bill will now go to the Senate floor for consideration.

Contact:

Heather Cevasco
(215)489-5000