Dear Editor,

In today's political landscape, it’s easy for misinformation to cloud the truth.  

 

Recently, Rep. Travis Smith (R-Dora), who is running for the Missouri Senate seat in the 33rd District, has been the target of some falsehoods. A recent postcard from his opponent’s political action committee wrongly suggests that supporting legislation regarding the 340B Drug Discount Program is equivalent to endorsing care for undocumented immigrants and using federal funds to support Planned Parenthood abortion services.  

 

These claims are not only misleading but also completely unfounded. It’s time to set the record straight.

 

Senate Bill 751, which will become law on Aug. 28, blocks drug manufacturers from restricting the number of local pharmacies that a hospital or community health center may contract with to dispense drugs under the federal 340B Drug Discount Program. 

 

The reality is that Smith's support for SB 751, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support (133-18 in the House and 28-3 in the Senate), is about doing what’s right for our patients. That’s because Ozarks Healthcare takes part in the 340B Drug Discount Program which allows us to work with local pharmacies to pass along thousands of dollars in savings to qualifying patients every year. 

 

The 340B Program is vital for Missouri’s hospitals, clinics and pharmacies, ensuring that Missouri patients have access to lifesaving medications close to home. 

 

Over the past two years, members of the Missouri General Assembly have heard firsthand from our hospital’s patients and staff about the importance of the 340B Program. This program helps deliver essential health services that would otherwise be unavailable in our community, specifically, low cost prescription drugs for fixed and low income seniors.  

 

Recognizing this, lawmakers voted to reject artificial limits on pharmacies' participation in the program. By standing up to powerful pharmaceutical companies, Rep. Smith has ensured his constituents can access critical medications through local pharmacies. 

 

In a time when political rhetoric often overshadows the truth, it is crucial for Missouri voters to know all the facts before heading to the polls on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

 

Ken Joplin

Chairman, Ozarks Healthcare Foundation

West Plains, Mo.