The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) expires April 1. The Tennessee Pharmacists Association (TPA) recently learned that the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) does not plan to renew this program beyond the April 1 deadline. Pharmacies are encouraged to use the Healthcare Ready fact sheets to learn how they can best assist their eligible patients while EPAP funding is still available.
Also in Tennessee, TennCare has enhanced reimbursement rates for its Diaper Benefit Program, creating new revenue opportunities for participating pharmacies. Effective February 15, maximum allowable cost (MAC) rates increased for diaper brands on the covered product list, and since February 28, pharmacies have been able to submit claims for private-label and “unlisted” diapers using a Generic Diaper UPC. Diaper program updates provide higher reimbursements, greater inventory flexibility and increased foot traffic for pharmacies statewide.
Finally in Tennessee, the Department of Health is urging clinicians to identify, isolate and inform people regarding suspected measles cases. Immediately report cases by phone at 615-741-7247. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), there have been 222 cases of measles across 12 states during 2025 alone, including three identified outbreaks and one pediatric death.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.