The Hidden Math Behind Drug Pricing: Why Patients Pay More Than They Should
In this episode, Michael Grosberg, VP of Product Management at Model N, breaks down the complex drug pricing ecosystem—revealing how rebates, PBMs, and outdated pricing models shape what patients actually pay.
You’ll learn how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) really operate, why list prices are misleading, and how pricing negotiations impact patient access. Michael also unpacks the mechanics behind patient assistance programs, the role of compounding and independent pharmacies, and how emerging technology can bring transparency and efficiency to a broken system.
Whether you’re in life sciences, healthcare tech, or just want to understand why your prescription costs what it does—this is a must-listen conversation.
🎙️ Guest: Michael Grosberg | VP of Product Management at Model N
🔗 Connect with Michael Grosberg: LinkedIn
🔗 Model N LinkedIn
🔗 Model N
🔗 Drug Channels Institute
📌 Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pharmaceutical Pricing Dynamics
03:00 The Role of PBMs in Drug Affordability
06:13 Challenges with GLP-1 Medications and Independent Pharmacies
09:01 Understanding Drug Pricing and Stakeholder Dynamics
11:55 The Impact of List Prices on Patient Costs
15:05 Innovative Approaches to Healthcare Pricing
18:01 Patient Assistance Programs and Their Implications
20:44 The Role of Technology in Pharmaceutical Pricing
23:54 The Need for Transparency in Drug Pricing
26:59 Resources for Further Learning on Drug Pricing
Subscribe for more insights on the latest in Life Sciences!
For transcripts, check out the podcast website - www.lifesciencespod.com
Popular Podcasts
NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal
Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com