Michigan Senate Bill 1179: Transparency Without Accountability Risks Undermining Health Equity

The passage of Michigan Senate Bill 1179 has sparked urgent conversations about transparency and accountability in healthcare—a dialogue that has never been more necessary. Framed as an effort to increase oversight in the federal 340B program, this legislation may seem like progress at first glance. Yet, upon closer examination, it reveals a glaring omission: how will transparency be measured, and who will hold hospitals accountable? These questions, central to the debate, remain unanswered. The 340B program was designed with equity in mind. It enables hospitals and clinics serving low-income and underserved populations to purchase outpatient medications at reduced prices. The expectation was that the savings would flow directly into expanding healthcare access for marginalized communities. The reality, however, is more complex. Without clear metrics or public reporting requirements, there’s no way to ensure that these funds are being used as intended. Advocates for health equity, including BlackDoctor.org, have sounded the alarm. The lack of accountability within the program is particularly concerning when Black and Brown communities—already disproportionately impacted by health disparities—stand to lose the most. When hospitals benefiting from the 340B discounts are not required to disclose how they allocate those funds, it creates a troubling void. Are these resources...