Association Reaffirms Commitment to Choice, Access, and Quality in Pharmacy Services 

The Oklahoma Pharmacists Association (OPhA) is deeply disappointed by the recent ruling that significantly impacts the delivery of pharmacy services in our state. This decision represents a step backward for Oklahoma families, limiting their access to trusted providers and the quality care they deserve. 

For decades, OPhA has championed the rights of patients to choose their pharmacy and receive high-quality, personalized care. This ruling threatens that foundational principle, narrowing options and placing unnecessary burdens on families and communities who rely on their local pharmacists. 

By choosing not to take up this case, the door remains open for the “Big Three” pharmacy benefit managers – CVS/Caremark (Aetna), Express Scripts (Cigna), and Optum Rx (United Health Group) – who control access to care for 85% of patients, to continue steering individuals into their own preferred networks. This practice not only limits patient choice but also contributes to rising healthcare costs for the very people the system is meant to serve. 

Every Oklahoman deserves the freedom to choose the pharmacy care that best fits their health needs.

When that freedom is restricted, it is our neighbors, friends, and loved ones who are most affected.

Our commitment remains unwavering. We will continue to advocate for fair, patient-centered policies that support the essential role pharmacists play in delivering accessible, expert healthcare.

We call on all stakeholders—policymakers, healthcare providers, and citizens—to join us in standing up for Oklahoma patients. 

Now is the time to come together.

OPhA will intensify its efforts to ensure future decisions recognize the value of community pharmacy and restore the high standards of care that every Oklahoman deserves. 

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To unite and promote the profession of pharmacy through advocacy, communication and education. We facilitate pharmacists in the development of innovative pharmacy practices that demonstrate improved health outcomes for patients and reinforce the role of pharmacists as essential members of the healthcare team.