WASHINGTON — For an app that helps pharmacies in Africa manage their medicines, the term “pharmacy benefit manager” has become a dirty word.
The organization, called Maisha Meds, plays the role of a middleman between international groups like USAID and the Gates Foundation and pharmacies. By definition, it’s a PBM. But since it’s a nonprofit company and it subsidizes medicines and tests aimed at promoting public health, it’s hesitant to describe itself that way.
“Because so many people kind of think of PBMs in the U.S. as the enemy, we don’t ourselves use that term,” said Maisha Meds’ founder and CEO, Jessica Vernon.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus daily market-moving biopharma analysis — by subscribing to STAT+.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
About the Author Reprints
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect