This study examined who uses specialty pharmacies and found that patients filling medications through these pharmacies tend to be older, have greater health care needs, and live in more socially vulnerable communities. The researchers found that most specialty pharmacy fills occurred through pharmacies owned by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) or insurers, and patients using these vertically integrated pharmacies were often among the most vulnerable. The findings suggest that policies requiring PBMs or insurers to divest specialty pharmacies could unintentionally disrupt medication access for high-need patients if not carefully implemented.
Case Study Link: Scope and characteristics of patients filling medications through specialty pharmacies by ownership type
Case Study Contact: Kelly E. Anderson