Drug Supply Chain: Transparent Pressure: Thoughts on UNH PBM News

Research evidence excerpt

Drug Supply Chain: Transparent Pressure: Thoughts on UNH PBM News

Deutsche Bank

Research

North America Industry Date

United States 12 May 2026

Drug Supply Chain

Health Care Industry Update

Healthcare Technology &

Distribution

Transparent Pressure: Thoughts on

UNH PBM News

George Hill

UNH Launching Fee-based PBM Model: Optum Rx announced the launch of

Research Analyst

"Transparent Pharmacy Care Model" this week, which replaces traditional PBM +1-212-250-7822

pricing structures tied to manufacturer list prices and prescription volume with

fixed, clearly disclosed per-member service fees. The model eliminates spread Maxi Ma, CFA

Research Associate

pricing practices, provides clients visibility into Optum Rx and GPO-related fees,

+1-901-338-2175

and includes a commitment to transition group purchasing economics to flat

service fees by the end of 2027. The new cost-based pricing applies to all drugs and Liz Li

pharmacies instead of a small subset, and Optum customers can audit the rebates Research Associate

and fees all the way to the GPO Emisar. The structural change is complemented by +1-617-251-2782

new digital affordability tools, including “Shop MyScript” and “Price Wise,” which

Key Changes

allow consumers to compare medication costs, pharmacy options and delivery

choices before prescriptions are filled. The announcement builds on several recent Company Target Price Rating

Optum Rx initiatives focused on rebate pass-through, reducing both drug and UNH.N 360.00 to -

370.00

medical prior authorizations and restructuring pharmacy reimbursement terms.

The move follows similar transparent PBM model launches from peers, including Source: Deutsche Bank

CVS Caremark’s “TrueCost” initiative introduced in 2024 and Express Scripts’