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Story perspectives

Tragic Death Sparks Lawsuit Against Pharmacy Benefit Managers

6/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Cole Schmidtknecht, just 22, tragically lost his life when the price of his asthma inhaler skyrocketed from under $70 to over $500. His devastated parents are holding pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) accountable, suing Optum Rx and Walgreens to demand policy reforms. Cole's story shines a harsh light on the urgent need for change in the U.S. healthcare system.

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Story summary

Cole Schmidtknecht, just 22, tragically lost his life when the price of his asthma inhaler skyrocketed from under $70 to over $500. His devastated parents are holding pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) accountable, suing Optum Rx and Walgreens to demand policy reforms. Cole's story shines a harsh light on the urgent need for change in the U.S. healthcare system.