local
States seek to lower drug prices by targeting the companies that manage them for health plans
By JOHN HANNA, Associated Press at KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News
· June 27, 2026
· 1 min read
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — As consumers worry about medication costs, states are trying to lower drug prices by reining in big companies that oversee prescription coverage for health insurers. Some of those companies, called pharmacy benefit managers, also own pharmacies, and one of them, CVS, has spent...
Key takeaway (AP) — As consumers worry about medication costs, states are trying to lower drug prices by reining in big companies that oversee prescription coverage for health insurers.
Why this matters in Westlake News
In the Austin area, where healthcare costs can be a significant burden for many residents, the efforts of states to regulate pharmacy benefit managers could have a direct impact on the affordability of prescription medications for Westlake residents. As the city's population continues to grow, the need for accessible and affordable healthcare options becomes increasingly important. The role of pharmacy benefit managers in determining drug prices and coverage is often opaque, making it difficult for consumers to understand the true cost of their medications. If states are successful in reining in these companies, it could lead to lower medication costs for Westlake residents, many of whom may be struggling to balance the cost of living in the area with the need for affordable healthcare. The outcome of these regulatory efforts will be closely watched by local healthcare advocates and residents alike.
About this story
Original reporting by KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News . Westlake News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 27, 2026 ·
Source: KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — As consumers worry about medication costs, states are trying to lower drug prices by reining in big companies that oversee prescription coverage for health insurers. Some of those companies, called pharmacy benefit managers, also own pharmacies, and one of them, CVS, has spent...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 27, 2026 by KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News and curated for Westlake News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by JOHN HANNA, Associated Press at KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News. To learn more about how Westlake News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Westlake News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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