06-17-26 FULL SHOW - One Reason Drugs Cost So Much

In today's episode, Mandy Connell dives into the world of pharmacy benefit managers, a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of the healthcare system. With the rising costs of prescription drugs, it's essential to understand how these middlemen impact the prices we pay. Joining Mandy is Antonio Ciaccia, president of 3 Axis Advisors, who sheds light on the complex relationships between pharmacy benefit managers, drug companies, and insurance providers. The conversation delves into the history of pharmacy benefit managers, their role in negotiating discounts, and the conflicts of interest that drive up prices. Mandy and Antonio discuss how the system is designed to favor the interests of the middlemen, rather than the patients, and how this leads to inflated prices and unnecessary costs. They also explore the example of GLP-1 medications, which have seen a significant price drop when purchased outside of the traditional insurance system. Plus it's time for our monthly check in with Justin and Brad of Bell and Pollock for Ask the Attorneys! And Dave Fraser from FOX31 stops by for Weather Wednesday!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.