Executive Vice President and General Manager Anthony Masotto explains what is driving pharmacy inflation — from the surge in GLP-1 demand to rapid specialty drug growth — and why traditional PBM levers are no longer enough. He outlines how market forces, not just utilization, are raising employer exposure and why rebate heavy models often fail to provide long-term savings.
Masotto also details why tightening formularies or cutting benefits misses the larger issue. Instead, he recommends a strategy built on clear data, aligned incentives and lowering costs before claims reach the plan. Through international sourcing, 340B partnerships and direct member education, he highlights ways employers can reduce high-cost risk, improve cash flow and strengthen support for members with the greatest needs.
Pharmacy costs continue to rise, placing new pressure on self-funded employers. In this episode, Drexi’s Anthony Masotto joins Fierce producer Chris Hayden to break down the structural forces driving today’s pharmacy risk and what employers can do to get ahead of it. Masotto explains how GLP-1 growth, specialty drug pipelines and shifting regulations are pushing spending higher, even as transparency expands. He also discusses why traditional PBM strategies often fall short and how misaligned incentives can leave employers exposed.
Masotto outlines Drexi’s approach to managing pharmacy benefits by focusing on upstream cost control, member engagement and aligned incentives. He walks through actionable strategies, including using 340B opportunities, exploring international sourcing and guiding members in real time. For employers and brokers rethinking their benefit models, this conversation offers a practical look at how to regain control without sacrificing the member experience.
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