Cell, Gene And Specialty Drug Costs Intensify For Health Plans

InnovationHealthcareCell, Gene And Specialty Drug Costs Intensify For Health PlansByBruce Japsen,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bruce Japsen writes about healthcare business and policy.Follow AuthorApr 27, 2026, 07:00am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Two in five health plans, or 43%, ranked management of specialty drug costs as their top goal ahead of managing the total cost of care at 41%, according to a report released Monday at Asembia ASX26 Summit in Las Vegas by Pharmaceutical Strategies Group (PSG). The analysis was based on responses from 228 health benefits executives from health plans, employers and unions.gettySpecialty drugs are an increasing worry for health plans and employers as new and innovative therapies enter the U.S. market and patients flock to them, a new analysis shows.Two in five health plans, or 43%, ranked management of specialty drug costs as their top goal ahead of managing the total cost of care at 41%, according to a report released Monday at Asembia ASX26 in Las Vegas by Pharmaceutical Strategies Group (PSG). The analysis was based on responses from 228 health benefits executives from health plans, employers and unions.“Payers continue to prioritize managing specialty drug trend and total cost of care,” said Morgan Lee, vice president of research and marketing at PSG. “At the same time, they are working to develop effective coverage strategies for new drugs and expanded indications, take a more integrated approach across pharmacy and medical benefits, and reassess traditional arrangements, including their reliance on rebates.”Specialty drugs already account for well more than half of the total prescription spending any health plan, employer or government health program manages. And employer clients tell benefits consultants specialty costs easily account for 60% or more of their total drug...