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FTC Investigates PBMs for Overcharging, Hurting Independent Pharmacies

1/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The FTC is probing pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) such as Optum RX, CVS Caremark, and Express Scripts for excessive drug price markups exceeding 1,000%.
PBMs are alleged to undermine independent pharmacies by directing consumers to their own outlets.
Pharmacists assert that PBMs dictate prescription filling and reimbursement rates, negatively impacting smaller businesses.
Fridley public schools are closed due to a safety threat; a special election for a Minneapolis Senate seat is set for January 28.

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Story summary

The FTC is probing pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) such as Optum RX, CVS Caremark, and Express Scripts for excessive drug price markups exceeding 1,000%.
PBMs are alleged to undermine independent pharmacies by directing consumers to their own outlets.
Pharmacists assert that PBMs dictate prescription filling and reimbursement rates, negatively impacting smaller businesses.
Fridley public schools are closed due to a safety threat; a special election for a Minneapolis Senate seat is set for January 28.