Pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) network terminations can have serious consequences for independent pharmacies that extend well beyond the loss of a contract. From financial clawbacks and payment withholdings to additional audits and potential regulatory scrutiny, a single network termination can threaten a pharmacy’s financial stability and ability to continue serving patients.
In an interview with Drug Topics following the 2026 National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) Annual Convention & Expo, Frier Levitt Partner Harini Bupathi discusses these risks and how a termination involving one PBM can lead to broader network exclusions, particularly for pharmacies with shared ownership or affiliations. Harini also highlights the importance of proactive compliance, understanding contractual appeal rights, and evaluating legal remedies, including arbitration and injunctive relief, to protect pharmacy operations and network participation.
