Judge blocks law to severely restrict PBMs
In a closely watched case, a federal judge has temporarily blocked an Arkansas law that would prevent companies from operating both pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and pharmacies. The law aimed to address concerns that major PBMs—CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx—favor their own pharmacy networks. The judge ruled that it “likely violates” the Commerce Clause. Critics say these firms favor their own pharmacies, distorting drug pricing and access. In 2023, these PBMs processed nearly 80% of U.S. prescriptions. CVS Health operates 23 retail stores in Arkansas. (Arkansas Advocate; STAT)
RFK, Jr.: No more funding for mRNA vaccines
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the federal emergency preparedness agency will stop funding mRNA vaccine development, citing the technology’s “failure to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections.” The decision cuts 22 grants and halts future investment. One expert called the move a “self-inflicted vulnerability,” warning it may weaken U.S. preparedness for future pandemics. The shift comes amid broader health policy changes. Meanwhile, six additional states have implemented new food stamp restrictions. (STAT)
Practice Transformation
Study: PGx testing improves anxiety treatment
Pharmacogenomics testing can make anxiety treatment safer and more effective, according to research published in Nature Mental Health. Adults whose medications were selected based on their genes had fewer side effects, needed fewer add-on drugs, and avoided hospitalizations compared to those receiving standard care. The personalized approach focused on how people process anxiety medications, particularly through the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 genes. By tailoring treatment, doctors reduced complications. Experts say the findings support using genetic testing in routine anxiety care to improve outcomes and reduce risks for millions of patients.(Nature Mental Health)
Kindergarten vax rates drop; RFK Jr. uninvites vax experts
Vaccinations among kindergarteners declined during the 2024-25 school year compared to the year before, according to new data from the CDC. Rates dipped to 92.1% for the diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP) and to 92.5 %for the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) and polio vaccine. In related news, the CDC told physician groups, public health professionals and infectious disease experts that they will no longer be invited to help review vaccine data and develop recommendations. The move marks an escalation in HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s efforts to control the CDC’s vaccine advisory process. (The Hill; Bloomberg)
Evidence & Innovation
Some PBMs adopt PGx
Two PBMs, True Rx Health Strategists and Capital Rx, are using pharmacogenomics (PGx) to reduce trial-and-error prescribing. True Rx’s True Genomics program, launched in 2022, has grown nearly 90%, serving 40,000 patients. Capital Rx’s Rx Helix, introduced in 2023, detects high risk drug-gene interactions in real time. While PGx testing has upfront costs, it could save employers $2,400 per patient by improving treatment accuracy and reducing complications, according to Managed Healthcare Executive. (Managed Healthcare Executive)
Policy Solutions
Trump to pharma: Cut prices in 60 days
On July 31, President Donald Trump sent letters to 17 major drugmakers demanding U.S. drug prices match the lowest rates paid abroad. He urged companies to offer all medications to Medicaid at these “most favored nation” prices and extend the same rates to Medicare and private insurers for new drugs. Companies have 60 days to comply. Experts say Trump may lack the authority to enforce the rule without Congress, and many expect industry pushback. In related news, last week he threatened to impose tariffs of up to 250% on pharmaceutical imports. (NBC News; CNBC)
