The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) has announced a search for new vendors to provide prescription drug benefits for 168,000 public employees and their families. The move is part of ongoing efforts by the HCA to reduce costs and improve services through collaborative purchasing.
“By joining with our IBAC partners, the State of New Mexico is leveraging its purchasing power to deliver pharmacy benefits that are transparent, affordable, and member-centered,” said Alex Castillo Smith, Health Care Authority Deputy Cabinet Secretary. “Together, we are negotiating from a position of strength to drive down costs, improve service, and support community pharmacies across New Mexico. This is about using the power of collaboration to deliver better results for the people we serve, and we’re looking for partners committed to this vision.”
According to the HCA, selected vendors will be required to enhance member experience, produce measurable health outcomes, and maintain wide provider networks. The agency outlined several priorities in its request for proposals: establishing a transparent drug purchasing model focused on affordability; implementing value-based cost sharing programs for effective drugs; supporting community pharmacies; maximizing state bargaining power for favorable pricing; and raising standards in customer service and pharmacy access.
Vendors interested in submitting proposals can find more information on the New Mexico Public Schools Insurance Authority website at https://nmpsia.com/procurements.html or through ProposalTech at http://www.proposaltech.com/home/app.php/register. Proposals must be submitted by November 3.
The HCA administers various programs including Medicaid, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program), cash assistance, child support services, behavioral health care across New Mexico as well as oversight of health benefits for state employees and management of the Health Care Affordability Fund. The agency also licenses healthcare facilities and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
