Union City, Tenn.–In response to recent changes in the pharmacy landscape, Jason Kizer, owner of Kizer Pharmacy, announced today that the pharmacy is no longer in-network and can not accept SilverScript for Goodyear retirees. This is a result of CVS Caremark’s introduction of a new contract network for 2024.
While Kizer Pharmacy accepts SilverScript plans in Medicare Part D, this new network, named 24 D, was offered to pharmacies across the nation, bringing about unforeseen consequences for independent pharmacies like Kizer Pharmacy. This network was applied to two Medicare Advantage plans in our area, but also special plans for employer-based retiree plans. The Goodyear Retiree plan was one of those plans.
The contracting organization representing thousands of pharmacies including Kizer Pharmacy, LeaderNet, known for never turning down a contract, made an exception in this case, rejecting the new 24 D network. Kizer Pharmacy was then given the opportunity to individually opt in or opt out. They decided to opt out of that network as well.
Jason Kizer expressed his frustration, stating, “We received no notification that the Goodyear plan was moving to this network we are not contracted with. This lack of transparency has put our pharmacy and many others in a dire financial situation.”
The implications extend beyond Goodyear retirees, affecting federal employee retirees as well. Kizer Pharmacy, given a list of plans that would be affected, was blindsided by the inclusion of these plans.
Upon closer analysis, it became apparent that the new network would result in significant financial losses for Kizer Pharmacy. The generic rates are decreasing dramatically, and there is a potential for benefit managers to
recoup 4% of the total cost of services, pushing numerous pharmacies, including Kizer Pharmacy, to the brink of closure.
Jason Kizer expressed concern for the wider pharmacy community, stating, “There’s going to be a host, potentially, thousands of community pharmacies closing their doors throughout this country. The Medicare Part D program and the way it is paid through three large companies have put immense pressure not just on independent community pharmacies but also chain pharmacies.”
Kizer Pharmacy, known for its commitment to community health, has been a staple in Union City for years. Offering services such as vaccines, prescription packaging, free in-town delivery, compounding, and durable medical equipment (DME), the pharmacy has played a crucial role in the community’s well-being. Despite challenges, Kizer Pharmacy has gone above and beyond during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential services and care to its loyal customers.
Expressing his commitment to the community, Jason Kizer stated ”We wish that we could continue to serve everyone. Some of you have been loyally coming to us for as long as 20 years, and we have absolutely loved being your pharmacist. We are making strategic changes to ensure that we can continue serving our community and keeping our doors open for another 20 years.”
Kizer Pharmacy calls attention to the broader challenges facing the pharmacy industry, urging the community to stay informed and vigilant about the changes affecting local pharmacies. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for current information.