Second tier PBMs attempt to increase market share

I mentioned yesterday that employers' push for transparency from their PBMs has created an opening for secondary players not addicted to the current system of retaining rebates from pharmaceutical companies. Today's Chicago Tribune (Walgreens, rivals to pass drug rebates on to clients) reports that three such players, Walgreen, Aetna, and MedImpact have agreed to the transparency criteria established by a 52 member employer coalition. The PBMs will share pricing information and pass through rebates.According to the Trib:

Aetna, Walgreens and MedImpact are hoping their pact with HR Policy will help them increase market share. None of the companies is among the three industry leaders. Caremark Rx Inc. is the No. 2 pharmacy benefit manager, and Express Scripts Inc. is No. 3.