A bipartisan bill introduced in Congress seeks to force healthcare companies to divest their pharmacy divisions. Sponsored by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), the legislation targets healthcare giants like CVS Health, Cigna, and UnitedHealth, requiring them to separate their pharmacy businesses within three years.
Lawmakers argue that current market structures allow companies to consolidate power, driving up prescription costs and limiting patient options. CVS, for example, operates the largest retail pharmacy chain in the country alongside its PBM and health insurance businesses.
“PBMs have rigged the system to enrich themselves while hurting patients and small pharmacies,” Warren stated. Hawley added, “It’s time to break up these companies and put patients first.”
PBMs serve as intermediaries in the prescription drug market, managing benefits for insurers and employers. Critics say the three largest PBMs, which control 80% of the market, use their power to prioritize their own pharmacies and mail-order services, raising costs for patients.
Defenders of PBMs argue they provide affordable and accessible medication. JC Scott, president of the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, warned against removing consumer access to medications. A CVS spokesperson also expressed concerns about potential cost increases resulting from the legislation.
This effort marks one of the boldest moves in years to address rising drug costs and healthcare industry consolidation. With bipartisan support, it could signal a shift toward prioritizing patient needs over corporate control.
