Prescription for Better Access

Author: Mark Hansan and Dr. Scott Howell

With pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturers launching more high-cost specialty drugs and the insurance industry increasing the use of more restrictive barriers to access, those who need these medicinesthe patients themselvesare caught in the middle, not only shouldering the cost of higher copays and deductibles, but for many, rationing or even abandoning treatment altogether. While manufacturers invest in programs to help navigate the challenges impeding access and affordability, the entire healthcare industry can agree -- the status quo is unsustainable. There has to be a better way. And two industry veterans have joined forces to co-host a new interview-focused podcast to help shape the future of patient access and affordability.
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Language: en-us

Genres: Health & Fitness, Life Sciences, Medicine, Science

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A Legal Perspective on PBM Reform and FTC Enforcement
Tuesday, 10 March, 2026

In this episode of Prescription for Better Access, we’re joined by William (Bill) Sarraille, a legal expert on drug access and reimbursement. He discusses two developments shaping the pharmacy benefit landscape: the FTC’s enforcement action involving Express Scripts and PBM reforms in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. Bill explains what these policy changes could mean for benefit design, drug coverage, employer-sponsored plans, and transparency in the PBM market. We also explore potential impacts on formularies, utilization management, contracting practices, and patient out-of-pocket costs, along with possible unintended consequences for employers, manufacturers, and patients seeking timely and affordable access to medicines. William (Bill) Sarraille, University of Maryland School of Law LinkedIn Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) FTC Settlement 2024 Administrative Complaint Cigna Healthcare Fair Market Value in Healthcare Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 Part D Plan PBMs No Longer Profit From Rebates But Plans Benefit – Pink Sheet TPA (Third Party Administrators) DOL Proposal Copay Accumulators and Maximizers Amicus Brief, HIV and Hepatitis Institute Questions or comments? Email us at comments@prescriptionforbetteraccess.com. Follow us on X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Threads.