Cambria County Backs Martella, Presses Network to Reconsider

Local Pharmacies Face Threat of Exclusion from Network

Cambria County Commissioners are taking a firm stand against a decision by a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) that could result in the termination of a contract with several local pharmacies. This move has raised concerns among residents and officials about the potential impact on healthcare access, community stability, and economic well-being.

Martella’s Pharmacy, along with other local pharmacies in Johnstown and the Laurel Highlands, recently received notice from Express Scripts, a major PBM, that they would no longer be part of the network starting August 18. This decision could leave patients who rely on these pharmacies for their prescriptions in a difficult position, forcing them to find alternative locations to fill their medications.

In a press release, the commissioners expressed strong opposition to the decision, emphasizing the disruption it could cause to patient care. They highlighted Martella’s long-standing commitment to serving the community with integrity, accessibility, and personalized care. The pharmacy has been a trusted provider for decades, offering essential services to residents across Cambria County.

“Terminating this contract would not only impact a valued local business but also force patients to switch to unfamiliar pharmacies, potentially disrupting their treatment and endangering their health,” said President Commissioner Scott Hunt. He stressed the importance of prioritizing patient care over profit, noting that decisions like this can have serious consequences for individuals and families.

Commissioner Keith Rager echoed these sentiments, urging Express Scripts and its parent company, Cigna, to reconsider their decision. “Profit should never come at the expense of community health,” he said. “This is a clear case where cost cuts are being prioritized over patient care. Decisions like this pad the account of shareholders while leaving patients to deal with unnecessary stress, delays, and confusion.”

Martella’s Pharmacy is more than just a healthcare provider; it is a vital part of the community. As a major employer, it supports local jobs and contributes to the economy. The pharmacy has also been a strong supporter of community initiatives, including schools, youth sports programs, and churches. Its exclusion from the network could have far-reaching effects, including job losses and reduced access to medical care for vulnerable populations.

According to the commissioners, 45% of Martella’s business comes from prescriptions. With recent closures of pharmacies like Rite Aid, the remaining pharmacies have experienced backlogs, leading to longer wait times for patients. The termination of Martella’s contract would exacerbate these challenges, creating additional delays and complications for those in need of medication.

The commissioners also pointed out that the decision could have a negative impact on the local economy. “This would just be adding to that, as well,” said Hunt. “While this is definitely not good for Martella’s, it’s not good for the community.”

In response to the situation, the board has reached out to UPMC, a healthcare provider linked to Express Scripts, asking them to advocate for the reversal of the decision. While UPMC has acknowledged the request, no official response has been provided yet.

The ongoing issue highlights the broader challenges faced by local pharmacies in an increasingly competitive and centralized healthcare landscape. As communities grapple with the loss of local businesses and the strain on healthcare systems, the need for solutions that prioritize both patient care and economic stability becomes even more urgent.