06/12/2026
Most people never see how pharmacies are actually paid—but it’s one of the most important parts of healthcare access.
Pharmacies are reimbursed by insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). In many cases, that reimbursement is lower than the cost of the medication itself.
That means pharmacies are expected to:
Dispense safely
Counsel patients
Manage shortages
Provide service and support
…all while losing money on the prescription.
Fair reimbursement isn’t about profit—it’s about sustainability.
Because when pharmacies can’t stay open, patients lose access to care.
