Express Scripts Files Lawsuit Against FTC Regarding Pharmacy Benefit Managers
Express Scripts Challenges FTC Report
In a bold move, Express Scripts, a subsidiary of Cigna, has initiated legal proceedings against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) concerning a recent federal report. This report attributes the surging costs of prescription drugs largely to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Express Scripts argues that the FTC's findings are deeply flawed and misrepresent the role that PBMs play in the healthcare sector.
Contentions of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, characterizes the FTC's report as "seventy-four pages of misguided assumptions" that fail to accurately reflect the complexities of drug pricing. Express Scripts claims that such inaccuracies could lead to detrimental impacts on the healthcare system.
The Importance of Pharmacy Benefit Managers
- Pharmacy Benefit Managers negotiate drug prices and manage pharmacy benefits.
- PBMs aim to lower costs for consumers by obtaining discounts from drug manufacturers.
- The ongoing debate about PBMs is pivotal in the discussion of healthcare affordability.
This case may set a precedent in shaping future regulations pertaining to pharmacy benefit managers and their impact on drug prices.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.