The Employer's Guide Blog for Overseeing PBMs

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The Importance of Hiring Certified Consultants and Brokers

Navigating the complex world of pharmacy benefit management (PBM) requires the expertise of certified consultants and brokers. As CHROs and CFOs, you are responsible for both the financial health of your organization and the well-being of your employees. Making the right decisions in managing pharmacy benefits is crucial, as mistakes can lead to financial waste and employee dissatisfaction. CHROs and CFOs should not underestimate the importance of hiring certified consultants and brokers, as their expertise is key to successfully navigating the complexities of pharmacy benefit management.

Hiring Certified Consultants and Brokers
Certify high-level stakeholders and decision-makers

Expertise You Can Trust

Certified consultants and brokers bring a level of expertise that is indispensable in navigating the intricate world of pharmacy benefits management (PBM). These professionals have undergone rigorous training and certification processes, ensuring they possess the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed, strategic decisions. Their expertise extends beyond basic cost analysis to encompass a comprehensive understanding of PBM contracts, formulary management, and the latest industry trends.

Ensuring Fiduciary Responsibility

One of the core tenets of the Pharmacy Benefit Institute of America is the fiduciary standard of care. Certified Pharmacy Benefit Specialists (CPBS) are trained to prioritize your organization’s best interests above all else. This means transparent pricing, unbiased recommendations, and a commitment to optimizing your pharmacy benefits program without compromising on quality or patient care.

Maximizing ROI on Benefits Spending

In an era where every dollar counts, the ability to maximize the return on investment (ROI) of your benefits spending is crucial. Certified consultants and brokers are adept at identifying cost-saving opportunities that do not sacrifice employee benefits. They leverage their expertise to negotiate better terms with PBMs, implement effective cost-containment strategies, and ensure that your benefits program is both financially sustainable and highly valued by your employees.

Navigating Regulatory Changes

The regulatory environment for pharmacy benefits is continually evolving. Staying compliant with new regulations requires a deep understanding of both current laws and impending changes. Certified professionals are well-versed in the latest regulatory requirements and can help your organization navigate these changes smoothly, avoiding potential legal pitfalls and ensuring that your benefits program remains compliant.

Aligning with the Consolidated Appropriations Act

The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) introduced several requirements for transparency and accountability in pharmacy benefits management. Certified consultants and brokers are equipped to ensure your organization complies with these regulations. Their training includes understanding the intricacies of the CAA, such as reporting on pharmacy benefit and drug costs, and ensuring transparency in PBM practices. This alignment with the CAA not only helps in maintaining regulatory compliance but also fosters trust and accountability in your pharmacy benefits program.

Enhancing Employee Satisfaction

A well-managed pharmacy benefits program can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and retention. Employees who feel supported in their healthcare needs are more likely to be engaged and productive. Certified consultants and brokers work to design benefits programs that are not only cost-effective but also meet the diverse needs of your workforce, from chronic disease management to mental health support.

Strengthening Internal Expertise

While hiring certified consultants and brokers is crucial, having certified internal staff can further strengthen the relationship between your organization, the broker, and the PBM. Certified internal staff members are well-versed in the nuances of pharmacy benefits management, allowing them to effectively collaborate with external consultants and brokers. This internal expertise ensures that your organization can maintain a high level of oversight and strategic direction, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a more cohesive benefits management strategy.

Access to a Network of Certified Experts

At the Pharmacy Benefit Institute of America, we maintain a directory of Certified Pharmacy Benefit Specialists who are ready to assist you in optimizing your pharmacy benefits program. These professionals have demonstrated their commitment to excellence and fiduciary responsibility. We invite you to explore our directory of Certified Pharmacy Benefit Specialists and find the right partner to help you achieve your organizational goals.


By prioritizing the expertise and fiduciary responsibility that certified consultants, brokers, and internal staff bring to the table, CHROs and CFOs can make strategic decisions that benefit both their organizations and their employees. Investing in certified professionals is an investment in the future health and financial well-being of your company.

Tyrone Squires, MBA, CPBS

I am the proud founder and managing director of TransparentRx, a fiduciary-model PBM based in Las Vegas, Nevada. We help health plan sponsors reduce pharmacy spend, by as much as 50%, without cutting benefits or shifting costs to employees.

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