Misconceptions Surrounding the Frictional PBM-Pharmacist Relationship

Amidst the often-frictional relationship between PBMs and the pharmacies they reimburse for medication dispensing, there are common misconceptions consistently circulating that have helped fuel PBM scrutiny.

“I think pharmacy and pharmacists have arguably a deserved distrust of PBMs and their integrity in fair dealing with them,” said Antonio Ciaccia, President of 3 Axis Advisors and CEO of 46brooklyn Research. “PBMs say, ‘Hey, we're great to pharmacists.’ I think pharmacists are reasonable in saying that's not the case.”

From publicized dismay toward PBMs to real-world evidence of pharmacies being treated unfairly for their services, there are significant reasons why pharmacists may hold their collective perspective toward prescription drug middlemen. However, with the way pharmacy benefit distribution is designed, argues Ciaccia, these 2 notable drug supply chain entities were never really supposed to develop a harmonious relationship.

“I see the numbers, I see how these relationships work, and it is designed to be frictious,” continued Ciaccia. “They're not meant to be lovers necessarily; they're meant to be Hatfields and McCoys. Pharmacies want to get paid more, PBMs want to pay less, and directionally, that is a good thing.”

Stay tuned for more from our conversation with Ciaccia, who dove deeper into the PBM narrative, discussing other misconceptions, PBMs’ history within the supply chain, and so much more. Be ready for our full-length conversation with Ciaccia, going live on Over the Counter next Thursday afternoon.

READ MORE: How PBMs Gained Notoriety in the Prescription Drug Market

Are you ready to elevate your pharmacy practice? Sign up today for our free Drug Topics newsletter and get the latest drug information, industry trends, and patient care tips, straight to your inbox.