Cigna wins approval to acquire Express Scripts

Pharma deals to reshape the industry  

The Department of Justice has granted antitrust approval of Cigna’s acquisition of pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts, the next move in a years-long trend of healthcare company consolidation.

Many see the prescription drug industry — often characterized by high prices and an opaque supply chain — as ripe for disruption, which may be driving deals like the Cigna/Express merger.

Cigna and Express Scripts said in a statement that merging the insurer and pharmacy benefit manager will reduce healthcare costs, expand choice and improve patient outcomes. However, some in the industry question what impact the deal will have on consumers, particularly as healthcare consolidation has often led to higher prices and fewer options.