The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 3, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding prescription drug pricing and new voluntary employee benefits.

A key topic was the impact of a recent executive order aimed at reducing prescription drug costs. The order directs Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to align medication prices in the U.S. with those in comparable countries. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the high costs of medications in America. The board discussed the implications of this order, emphasizing the need to maintain quality service for employees while pursuing cost reductions.

The conversation highlighted the county's current PBM, Express Scripts, and its recent shift in policy regarding Florida's Bill 5150, which mandates that PBMs pass through savings to pharmacies. The board noted that while Express Scripts initially claimed the bill did not apply to governmental plans, they later acknowledged its relevance. The board is considering a transition to Rightway, a PBM that operates on a true pass-through model, ensuring that all rebates are passed directly to the county without additional profit margins.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the use of GoodRx, a platform that sometimes offers lower prices for medications. However, it was clarified that using GoodRx does not contribute to out-of-pocket maximums under the county's health plan, which could lead to higher overall costs for employees.

In terms of employee benefits, the board proposed introducing three new voluntary options, including a hospital indemnity program, identity theft protection through Norton LifeLock, and legal assistance coverage through AROG. These benefits aim to enhance employee support while remaining optional for participation.

The discussions underscored the county's commitment to improving healthcare affordability and employee welfare, with plans for further evaluation and implementation of the proposed changes in the coming months.