Here are some of the negative effects of PBMs:

1. Lack of Transparency: One of the biggest criticisms of PBMs is their lack of transparency. PBMs often negotiate prices and rebates with pharmaceutical manufacturers and don’t disclose the details of those negotiations. This lack of transparency has led to concerns about conflicts of interest and the potential for PBMs to prioritize their own profits over patient care.
2. Limited Access to Medications: PBMs develop formularies that determine which drugs are covered by insurance plans. While formularies can help control costs, they can also limit patient access to certain drugs. Some formularies may exclude certain drugs or require patients to try less expensive drugs before approving more expensive medications, even if those medications are more appropriate for the patient’s condition.
3. Reimbursement Rates: PBMs determine reimbursement rates for pharmacies, which can impact the financial viability of independent pharmacies. Some argue that PBMs set reimbursement rates too low, making it difficult for independent pharmacies to compete with larger chain pharmacies. This can lead to a decrease in the number of independent pharmacies, which can limit patient access to healthcare services.
4. Limited Competition: Over the years, PBMs have consolidated, with a few large PBMs dominating the market. This has led to concerns about competition and transparency in the industry, as some argue that the consolidated market may limit competition and drive up prices.
5. Administrative Burden: PBMs often require pharmacies to complete extensive paperwork and meet certain requirements in order to participate in their network. This administrative burden can be time-consuming and costly for pharmacies, which can impact patient care.

In conclusion, while PBMs have helped reduce the cost of prescription drugs, they have also faced criticism for their lack of transparency, limited access to medications, reimbursement rates, limited competition, and administrative burden. It is important for the industry to continue to evaluate the role of PBMs and work towards solutions that prioritize patient care and access to medications.