Drugstore Price Challenges Amid Health Insurance Changes
Impact of Pharmacy Benefit Managers on Drugstore Pricing
The dynamics of drugstore pricing have taken a negative turn due to powerful pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) such as CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and Optum. As these companies continue to reshape the landscape, independent drugstores face dire consequences.
Creating Pharmacy Deserts
In regions like Bismarck, Darrington, and Huntington Beach, CA, the systematic underpayment issues have led to the emergence of pharmacy deserts. This not only jeopardizes the financial viability of local pharmacies but also restricts community access to necessary medications.
State Policies and Impact
Moreover, in states like Pennsylvania and New Jersey, health insurance regulations are increasingly favoring large chains over independent drugstores, further complicating their survival.
- Price Manipulation by PBMs
- Health Insurance Gaps
- Local vs. National Drugstore Costs
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.