Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug Co. is rapidly scaling its affiliate pharmacy network, which is designed to support independent and grocery chain pharmacies, as well as consumers, with transparent drug pricing and expanded patient access.
Here are five details to know:
- Launched in 2023, the Affiliate Pharmacy Network was established to help independent pharmacies compete with major chains by offering fair pricing, local access to affordable medications and reliable reimbursement, according to a June 3 article published in Drug Topics.
- After initially launching with 36 pharmacies, the network has expanded rapidly. As of July 2023, it included more than 2,300 affiliate locations across 38 states and Washington, D.C., including major grocery chains like Kroger.
- Through the network, patients are able to use the “Team Cuban Card” which functions like an insurance card at participating pharmacies. After signing up online, users receive transparent pricing on over 2,000 drugs, the report said. Pharmacies then process the prescriptions using the card, offering a clear, discounted price.
- Participating pharmacies receive a $12 dispensing fee per prescription, with $14 for cold chain storage or complex Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies and a $25 administrative fee for influenza vaccines. Unlike traditional PBMs, the network makes sure that ingredient reimbursements reflect the actual acquisition costs.
- The company’s hybrid model allows patients to choose between mail-order fulfillment for maintenance medications and local pickup at independent pharmacies for both acute and ongoing prescriptions.
“We recognize local community pharmacies, and in particular independent pharmacies, as the lifeblood of local communities and a crucial, accessible touchpoint within the healthcare system,” said Erin Albert, PharmD, chief of pharmacy relations at Cost Plus Drugs.
