Prescription Costs Caused Millions to Skip Medications
A recent survey shows that drug price uncertainty led many U.S. adults to delay or reduce their medication use.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Diabetes
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Do you find it difficult to afford your regular prescription medications due to uncertain pricing?
A survey released in September 2026 found that 35% of U.S. adults have delayed or skipped prescribed medications due to cost concerns. Nearly half of respondents reported that they arrived at the pharmacy without knowing the final price of their prescriptions.
Why it matters
When patients face unpredictable costs for essential treatments, they often alter their dosing or skip doses entirely to manage expenses. This lack of price transparency, compounded by complex industry roles, directly impacts the ability of Americans to maintain necessary health regimens.
The Model N survey identified that 35% of U.S. adults alter their medication use due to cost, while 76% of respondents reported little to no knowledge of pharmacy benefit managers. While these figures highlight widespread consumer confusion, the specific long-term impact on drug adherence remains under observation.
The players
Model N
A technology company that provides revenue management solutions and published the national survey on prescription medication habits.
State of Florida
A state government body currently pursuing legal action against pharmacy benefit managers and insulin manufacturers to address pricing practices.
State of Iowa
A state government currently challenging a judicial ruling that hindered local authority to regulate pharmacy benefit managers.
The details
Pharmacy benefit managers act as intermediaries between health plans and drug manufacturers, creating lists of covered medications and negotiating rebates. Because this process is opaque to most consumers, many arrive at the pharmacy counter without knowing their final copay or the total cost of their prescriptions. For the 7.7 million Americans using insulin, this systemic complexity often results in monthly costs exceeding $150.
Timeline
September 2026: Survey findings regarding medication usage habits were published.
Health Landscape
The findings reflect a broader trend of public scrutiny surrounding the role of intermediaries in the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain. This climate of uncertainty follows the pattern of ongoing legal challenges against pharmacy benefit managers aimed at curbing complex rebate and pricing structures.
If you are concerned about the cost of your prescriptions, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a price estimate before finalizing your order at the pharmacy counter. It is also worth discussing with your physician if lower-cost generic alternatives exist for your current treatment plan.
The takeaway
Uncertainty regarding drug pricing is a primary driver behind patients skipping or delaying essential treatments. If you find your current costs unsustainable, consult with your physician to discuss potential alternatives or financial assistance programs that may be available for your specific condition.
Further reading
For more on managing long-term treatment costs, visit our Diabetes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOWO 1190 AM | 107.5 FM.
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Do you find it difficult to afford your regular prescription medications due to uncertain pricing?
