May 28, 2025
Today, the Oregon Senate passed HB 2385-B, helping protect Oregonian’s ability to get 340B program medications at community pharmacies close to home. The hospital association is grateful for the Senate’s support, especially Sen. Patterson, Sen. Reynolds, and Sen. Campos, who played a key role in securing the bill’s passage.
“Today, Oregon policymakers took action to protect care for vulnerable Oregonians—whether they are served by a federally qualified health center or their community hospital—and make sure that Oregonians in every corner of our state can get the medications they need close to home,” said Sean Kolmer, executive vice president of external affairs at the Hospital Association of Oregon.
Though the 340B program has been in place for more than 30 years, it has recently come under attack from drug companies. HB 2385-B protects a health care organization’s ability to contract with pharmacies to improve access for patients, especially in rural areas.
“The 340B program is a vital lifeline for rural hospitals like Columbia Memorial, allowing us to stretch limited resources and provide essential care to vulnerable populations,” said Chris Laman, a pharmacist and vice president of strategy at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Astoria. “Thanks to 340B, we’re able to reinvest savings into critical community services that would otherwise be unsustainable—such as dental care for Medicaid or uninsured patients, maternity services, and mental health programs.”
Oregon is ranked second in the country for the fewest pharmacies per capita, making it difficult for Oregonians to get the medications they need. Restricting use of community pharmacies means people would need to travel to their local hospital, creating additional barriers to care.
Oregon community hospitals and federally qualified health centers aren’t the only ones facing attacks by drug companies. Several other states like Arkansas, Maryland, and Louisiana have passed legislation. Additionally, 27 states are considering legislation in 2025 that would enshrine protections for the use of community pharmacies.
“Oregonians should be able to get the prescriptions they need from a federally qualified health center or community hospital or other 340B participating organization,” said Kolmer. “HB 2385-B is an opportunity for lawmakers to make it easier for everyday Oregonians to access the care they need.”
The bill now heads to the House for a concurrence vote.
