In this episode of the Federal Newswire Lunch Hour, host Andrew Langer sits down with Anne Cassity, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at the National Community Pharmacists Association, to break down how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) have reshaped — and distorted — the U.S. prescription drug system.
Cassity explains how PBMs evolved from simple claims processors into vertically integrated power brokers that control drug formularies, pharmacy networks, and reimbursement rates. The conversation digs into consolidation in health care, rising drug prices, rebate opacity, forced mail-order pharmacy schemes, and why independent community pharmacies are being pushed to the brink.
The episode also explores bipartisan efforts in Congress to rein in PBMs, restore transparency, lower costs for patients, and protect local pharmacies that serve as frontline health care providers in their communities. A must-listen for anyone concerned about health care access, drug pricing, and the future of small businesses in America.
Watch Full-Length Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@Lunchhour_FNW
