Today was a major step forward in getting pharmacists medication therapy management (MTM) services recognized as an essential part of health care reform. As reported in the New York Times, "Voting on strict party lines, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee approved a bill on Wednesday to revamp the nation’s health care system, as Democrats said that the legislation held the promise of more universal health coverage and more effective and affordable medical care while Republicans argued that the measure was unaffordable and would lead not to better care but to the denial of it."

Also yesterday, House Democrats unveiled their revised version of health care reform Tuesday, offering a proposal that includes a government-funded health insurance option, requires both individuals and employers to participate, and taxes the wealthy to help cover costs.

APhA has worked very hard to ensure MTM is recognized and that our provisions remain intact through the legislative process. The approval of the proposal by the HELP comittee and bipartisan support of those provisions is a very positive sign. Please be sure to touch base with your representative in August while they are home and share your support.