In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Barnes, CEO of RxBenefits, to discuss the challenges faced by self-insured employers in managing pharmacy benefits. Barnes shares her insights on the difference between PBOs and PBMs, the complexities of managing pharmacy benefits, and the importance of pharmacists in the healthcare system.

Here are 10 points covered in this episode: Pharmacy benefit optimizers (PBOs) help smaller to mid-sized self-insured employers manage their pharmacy benefits. PBOs and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) have different roles and responsibilities. Self-insured employers face financial pressures and the complexity of managing pharmacy benefits. The big three PBMs extract high rates year over year, but the industry is moving towards a cost-plus environment. RX Benefits offers a one-year contract model to account for market changes. Misinformation is a challenge in the industry, and transparency is critical in negotiations. A small team of decision-makers engages with PBMs directly, emphasizing the need for accountability on both sides. Providing a comprehensive approach to managing pharmacy benefits and a single member service center can simplify the process for employees. A supplemental stop-loss product can help smaller employers cover specialty medication costs. Pharmacists are essential in the healthcare system and have become increasingly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.rxbenefits.com/ Connect with Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bizofpharmpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BizOfPharmPod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBusinessofPharmacyPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/bizofpharmpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bizofpharmpodWebsite: https://www.bizofpharmpod.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://www.bizofpharmpod.com/reviews/new/