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The tool, called DFS Connect, was unveiled Monday, March 17, by the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) as part of a push to increase transparency and hold drug manufacturers accountable, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office said.
It will allow residents to file complaints about prescription drug price spikes, particularly if a drug’s cost has risen by more than 50 percent in a year. Small, independent pharmacies can also report unfair business practices by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)—the middlemen between drug manufacturers and pharmacies that often impact drug pricing.
DFS Connect lets users track the status of their complaint in real time and communicate directly with officials. Local pharmacies that feel pressured by unfair PBM practices can also seek assistance through the platform.
“New Yorkers deserve a transparent and accessible option for reporting drug price spikes and holding PBMs and drug manufacturers accountable,” Hochul said. “DFS Connect allows for individuals to report these spikes to the State and provide a more efficient service to both consumers and businesses.”
The rising cost of prescription drugs has been a growing concern. Since January 2022, DFS has received over 300 complaints about PBMs and has recovered more than $1.3 million for pharmacies and consumers, Hochul’s office said. The new system aims to cut red tape and provide a user-friendly way to report issues and seek help.
The launch of DFS Connect is part of a larger overhaul of the state’s financial and consumer protection systems. Over the next two years, New York plans to expand the platform to handle insurance licensing, financial institution oversight, and legal filings. The full transition to DFS Connect is expected by 2026.
New Yorkers can submit PBM or drug price complaints online through DFS Connect using a new or existing NY.gov account.
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