Lucy Hodder | Oppose HB1755

I writing in opposition to HB 1755. While framed as a transparency measure, it is unnecessary at a state level, will overburden the ability of Federally Qualified Healthcare Centers (FQHC’s) and critical access hospitals to offer care to their patients. FQHCS treat patients regardless of their ability to pay and are able to offer a sliding fee scale based on income that allows access to primary and preventive care to many patients across NH. The 340B program was intended to support FQHCS and critical access hospitals. This bill includes a substantial fiscal note due to costs, and would have a chilling effect on use of 340B program and funds, making the safety net for low-income patients even more vulnerable, costing the state millions of dollars. Transparency and accountability are important, but HB 1755 undermines federally supported programs, destabilizes nonprofit health care providers, and puts patients at risk. Please vote inexpedient to legislate on this bill.