Cigna’s Rebate-Free Pharmacy Model Holds Promise For Some Patients

The insurer Cigna says it is eliminating rebates in some its commercial plans. This could save patients money at the pharmacy, particularly those in high deductible plans. getty

Bloomberg reported this week that one of the nation’s largest health insurers, The Cigna Group, will eliminate prescription drug rebates in its fully insured commercial health plans in 2027. Starting in 2028, the insurer will expand what it calls a “rebate-free model” as an offering to clients of its pharmacy benefits business. The policy changes promise to save money for some patients, particularly while in the deductible phase of their insurance. Patients may also have lower out-of-pocket costs for medications once their coverage phase begins. But questions linger, including the extent to which rebates are