Perspectives

Advocacy in Action: KeySource Capitalizes on Congressional Recess To Meet with Rep. Landsman

September 26, 2023

Throughout the year, HDA members have been actively engaging with policymakers when they return to their home districts to raise awareness about the vital role distributors play in healthcare.

On August 25, during the congressional recess, HDA member KeySource hosted Congressman Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) and his staff at the company’s distribution center in Cincinnati, Ohio. KeySource CEO and HDA Board Member Albert Paonessa, III, and his team — including CFO Ryan Sevek, Fulfillment Vice President Thom Coleman, Sr. Vice President of Legal Affairs Robert Brown and Director of Fulfillment Stacy Ives — described KeySource’s role in the pharmaceutical supply chain as a national distributor of generic products to retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics and other sites of care.

Discussing the Value of Pharmaceutical Distribution

With more than 100 employees at its Cincinnati offices and distribution center, KeySource has serviced pharmacies throughout the United States for over 30 years. During his visit, KeySource was able to provide Congressman Landsman with valuable insights into the current challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers and distributors as the supply chain endeavors to supply necessary medications to patients around the country. This firsthand perspective is remarkably beneficial for policymakers, who may not be familiar with the daily impact our sector has in maintaining the health and well-being of our population.

Specifically, issues connected to drug shortages, including concerns surrounding implementation of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA), were presented to the congressman. Rep. Landsman expressed his support in assisting KeySource and the industry to ensure that the appropriate products are readily available throughout the healthcare system and requested that the company keep lines of communication open with his office regarding developments impacting the distribution of pharmaceutical products.

Continuing the Conversation

HDA members who are interested in hosting governmental staff at their facilities can contact Abigail Kizer, Associate Director, HDA PAC and Grassroots, for support and information on scheduling a tour or meeting.

HDA has created federal and state advocacy toolkits, which provide the resources and best practices for members to become successful advocates on behalf of their companies and the distribution industry.