Pharmacy support that’s second to none

We proudly partner with community pharmacies across the country to open new doors of access to patients.

Doctor
SERVICE AND SUPPORT

The significant impact of local pharmacies

At Express Scripts, we know pharmacies are the heartbeat of local care. They’re often the first place people turn when they don’t have a physician or hospital close by, making them a vital part of many patients’ care journeys. That’s why we’re committed to working with our independent pharmacy partners to provide enhanced services while listening to and addressing their needs.

Pharmacist behind counter
20,000+ 

independent pharmacies in our network

Enhancing care with our Independent Pharmacy Affairs Office

Our team, led by former independent pharmacy owners, works to deepen connections with independent pharmacies through open conversations, expanded services, and a shared commitment to personalized, high-touch care.

Evolved reimbursement model

increases transparency for pharmacies.

Additional pharmacy services

strengthen care-delivery capabilities.

Industry-first Independent Pharmacy Advisory Committee

fosters collaboration with pharmacists.

Our new Model

Reimbursing pharmacies based on improved outcomes

Starting in 2027, we will evolve our reimbursement model to further strengthen our focus on fairness, sustainability, and clinical excellence.

Acquisition cost + dispensing fee

Reimbursing pharmacies based on what they pay for medications, plus a dispensing fee and additional reimbursement for essential clinical services

Critical access adjustments

Appropriately supporting pharmacies based on the patient populations and regions they serve

Bonus payments for quality metrics*

Providing additional compensation for pharmacies that meet certain clinical performance metrics that mean the most to members and plan sponsors

Clear, predictable payment structures

Increasing trust with pharmacies by doing away with hidden formulas and providing simple, straightforward reimbursement

EXPANDING ACCESS

Helping independent pharmacists deliver more

Express Scripts offers our MoreThanRxSM products and services to increase access to certain routine, preventive, and chronic care services at local pharmacies. This drives new growth opportunities for pharmacy owners while providing faster, more convenient care options for members.

We’re expanding the services provided at the pharmacy, making it easier for members and plans to achieve better health and outcomes. 

 

 

Our network pharmacists can provide the following services:

Immunizations for influenza, COVID-19, and other routine and travel vaccinations

Testing for acute infections**

Clinical assessments and prescribing**

Chronic condition management

Annual Comprehensive Medication Management assessments

Medication Administration**

LISTENING AND LEARNING

The industry’s first Independent Pharmacy Advisory Committee

Our Independent Pharmacy Advisory Committee (IPAC) brings together a diverse group of pharmacy leaders across rural, urban, and suburban areas. These professionals help us better understand the competitive environment independent pharmacies face, learn from different business models, and create new solutions that help provide patient care in their communities. By listening to pharmacists, we improve our support and are better partners for pharmacies and the patients they serve.

pharmacy committee
Collaboration timeline

A stronger partnership year after year

In addition to our major milestones, we also hold biannual IPAC meetings and regional conversations with pharmacy partners.

Patient with pill bottle

Apr

Announced IndependentRx initiative 

July

Launched MoreThanRx

Aug

Established Independent Pharmacy Affairs Office 

Nov

Held Inaugural Independent Pharmacy Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting

LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVE
"Our partnership with independent pharmacy owners is providing important perspective that has been instrumental in creating a model that aligns incentives, supports pharmacy sustainability, and puts patients first."

Stephanie Smith Cooney, PharmD
Senior Director of Independent Pharmacy Affairs 
Express Scripts Pharmacy Benefit Services

stephanie Smith Cooney, PharmD
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Are you an in-network pharmacy?
Discover more resources and support.

*This is a buy-up network where clients can choose from three options.
**Available services vary by condition, medication, and state regulations.