PBM contracting challenges continue to threaten stability of long-term care pharmacy services for millions of seniors

DATE: June 18, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – The Senior Care Pharmacy Coalition (SCPC) is deeply disappointed to hear continued reports of contracting challenges between long-term care (LTC) pharmacies and the nation’s three largest pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) – CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and Optum Rx. These ongoing disputes threaten the stability of pharmacy services that millions of seniors and individuals with complex medical needs across the country rely on every day. 

LTC pharmacies provide far more than medication dispensing. They provide specialized clinical support, medication management and regimen review, hand delivery of medications, emergency access, and coordination with nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and other essential long-term care settings. When PBM-driven reimbursement and contract terms become unsustainable, the ability of these pharmacies to maintain essential and effective services for LTC facilities and their residents is at risk. 

SCPC urges all parties to work toward fair, transparent, and sustainable agreements that account for the unique role LTC pharmacies play in our healthcare system. Residents of LTC facilities deserve uninterrupted access to medications and the specialized pharmacy services that support their health and quality of life. SCPC is adamantly opposed to any PBM negotiation tactics that involve creating fear of loss of coverage for patients and their families. 

We remain committed to advocating for policies that protect patient access, support LTC pharmacies, and ensure that vulnerable populations continue to receive the care they need. SCPC recently outlined eight core changes in a February letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Oz that the Administration can make to level the playing field for LTC pharmacies in their dealings with PBMs. We call on the Administration to make these changes as soon as possible.

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The Senior Care Pharmacy Coalition is the national trade association and leading voice for long-term care pharmacies, representing these essential pharmacies that serve seniors and other individuals in long-term care settings across the United States.