pharmacy benefit managers

Thousands of patients with autoimmune diseases who rely on Humira, with a list price of $6,600 a month, could get financial relief from new low-cost rivals. So far, the pharmacy benefit managers that control drug prices have not delivered on those savings.

At least nine bills introduced in Congress take aim at pharmacy benefit managers, the powerful middlemen that channel prescription drugs to patients. Here's what the fuss is all about.

To drive down costs, insurers are delivering high-priced infusion drugs via third-party pharmacies. Hospitals and clinics are trying to convince states to limit this practice, known as "white bagging."

Drug-makers, pharmacies, and physicians blame pharmacy benefit managers for high drug prices. Florida has already taken action. Now, Congress is finally on board, too, but will it matter?

The governor moved quickly to sign a bill that will place restrictions on pharmacy benefit managers. The House and Senate unanimously passed the measure Tuesday.

The bill is ready to go to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who during his annual State of the State address in March called for making PBM changes.

The House Appropriations Committee on Friday approved a bill that would make a series of changes to regulate PBMs. The Senate unanimously passed its version on Wednesday.

Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to add controls on so-called middlemen in prescription transactions. Independent pharmacy owners have complained that PBMs have taken control of the financial market in the business.

Gov. Ron DeSantis outlined proposed legislation that would target the health care "middlemen" to try to lower prescription costs. He said his plan will increase transparency and help small drug stores.

Some insurers and employers are tapping into assistance programs meant for individual patients. The concern: Some costly drugs could be harder for patients to access.