Florida regulator seeks prescription data, raising privacy issues

Florida's insurance regulator has raised concerns about patient privacy after requesting personal prescription information from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) seeks details like patient names, birthdates, and prescription records as part of their investigation into PBMs. PBMs act as middlemen between pharmacies, insurance companies, and drug manufacturers. They influence which medications are covered and their costs. This data request is connected to a law aimed at increasing transparency and holding PBMs accountable for rising drug prices. Critics worry about how the OIR will use this sensitive information. Various voices, including a retired pharmacist and a school benefits director, expressed that personal medical details should only be known to healthcare providers. The American Benefits Council has also urged the OIR to withdraw its request, claiming it violates patient privacy. OIR representatives stated that the data collection is routine and important for their oversight responsibilities. They emphasized the need for thorough examinations of PBMs, as this is the first time they can conduct such reviews. However, concerns remain about potential misuse of the information, especially regarding sensitive topics like reproductive health and transgender care. Governor Ron DeSantis has defended the initiative as a way to bring accountability to PBMs that he believes have operated without public scrutiny. The OIR maintains it will continue to seek data to protect consumer interests.