On March 14, 2025, Brown and Toland announced it would be adjusting reimbursement rates for buy-and-bill specialty pharmacy products. The announced change would reduce reimbursement for physician administered specialty pharmacy drugs. Alternatively, physicians would have the option to submit specialty pharmacy scripts as a referral to Brown & Toland for procurement from its preferred vendor, also known as “white bagging.” The change would impact all in-network providers and was scheduled to become effective May 1, 2025.  

The California Medical Association (CMA) reached out to Brown & Toland to express concerns that reductions in reimbursement for drug costs, which represent fixed costs for practices, could place significant financial strain on in-network physician practices. And the alternative “white bagging” process, where physicians obtain medications through the payor’s designated vendor, can add administrative burdens and operational challenges that may delay treatment and compromise patient safety.

Brown & Toland shared with CMA that it has delayed implementation until July 1, 2025, to allow additional time for further engagement with physicians affected by this change. CMA, along with several specialty societies, is  also continuing discussions with Brown & Toland regarding our significant concerns with this policy.

Practices with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Brown & Toland Customer Service at (800) 225-5637 or by emailing the Physicians Relations Department at physicianrelations@altais.com.

Practices can also contact CMA at (800) 786-4262 or economicservices@cmadocs.org.