The Decibel The rise in exclusive deals between insurers and pharmacies
Feb 28, 2024
Exclusive deals between insurance companies and pharmacies spark controversy as patients, pharmacists, and ministers question transparency and consumer choice. The impact of preferred pharmacy networks (PPNs) on patient treatment approval is debated. The podcast explores the backlash against PPNs, the complexity of exclusive insurance deals, and the challenges posed by rising drug costs in private health insurance.
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Manulife's Exclusive Deal
Manulife faced public outcry after limiting drug coverage to Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaws. The backlash led them to reverse their decision and allow patients to choose any pharmacy in Canada.
Understanding PPNs
Preferred Pharmacy Networks (PPNs) facilitate agreements between insurers and select pharmacies to manage drug costs. However, they can limit patient choice and competition in healthcare.
Lack of Transparency in PPNs
There is a significant lack of transparency regarding the number of PPNs and their impact on drug costs in Canada. Many deals are confidential, making it hard to track their prevalence.