Defending Independent Pharmacies: It's Time to Scrutinize PBMs, Not Burden Taxpayers

PBM Math: Big Chains Are Paid $23.55 To Fill a Blood Pressure Rx. Small Drugstores? $1.51.

As an industry professional, I believe that taxpayers should not be forced to shoulder the burden created by the unfair practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The recent veto of a bill aimed at reimbursing independent pharmacies in Georgia highlights a deeper issue: the unchecked influence of PBMs, which profit immensely without the risks and overhead associated with running highly regulated and costly businesses like pharmacies.

A recent article titled "PBM Math: Big Chains Are Paid $23.55 To Fill a Blood Pressure Rx. Small Drugstores? $1.51" exposes the stark disparity in reimbursements between large chain pharmacies and independent drugstores, driven by PBM practices. Independent pharmacists, like those in Georgia, are struggling to stay afloat as PBMs reimburse them a fraction of what chains receive for the same medications. This financial strain has forced many small pharmacies to close their doors, while the profits of PBMs and large chains continue to grow unchecked. The veto of a Georgia bill that aimed to level the playing field further highlights the ongoing challenges facing local pharmacies.

While state reimbursement plans like the one proposed in Georgia are well-intentioned, they should not be funded by taxpayers. Instead, the focus should be on reforming the current PBM structure to ensure fair competition and equitable reimbursements. PBMs, which currently siphon off a significant portion of pharmaceutical profits, must be held accountable for their role in inflating drug prices and hurting small pharmacies. It is unjust for taxpayers to fill the gap while PBMs continue to grow their profits.

A reformed PBM system—one that values transparency, fair competition, and equitable reimbursement—will ensure that small pharmacies can thrive without relying on taxpayer subsidies, ultimately benefiting consumers and the healthcare system as a whole.

Do you agree or disagree? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!