§346-312  Rx plus program.  (a)  There
is established within the department, the Rx plus program.  The program will
combine the purchasing power of all qualified residents to enable the State to
reduce prescription drug costs and improve the quality of health care for
qualified Hawaii residents in the program, thereby increasing the overall
health of Hawaii residents, promoting healthy communities, and protecting the
public health and welfare.  The program shall be integrated into, and part of
any statewide program for the uninsured.



(b)  The program shall use manufacturer rebates
and pharmacy discounts to reduce prescription drug prices.



(c)  The department may administer the program
or contract with a third party or third parties to administer any single
component, or combination of components of the program, including outreach,
eligibility, claims, administration, rebate negotiations and recovery, and
redistribution to achieve the maximum possible discount for Hawaii residents. 
Any contract to administer any program component shall prohibit the contractor
from receiving any compensation or other benefits from any manufacturer
participating in the program.



(d)  The department shall conduct ongoing
quality assurance activities similar to those used in the medicaid program. [L
2002, c 76, pt of §1; am L 2004, c 47, §3]