April 23, 2026 - Express Scripts Enters Into Agreement With LDI to Correct Local Pharmacy Dispensing Fee Payments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2026

Express Scripts Enters Into Agreement With LDI to Correct Local Pharmacy Dispensing Fee Payments

Pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) Express Scripts (ESI) has entered into an agreement with the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) to begin reimbursing local pharmacies in line with Directive 257 this week. Directive 257 provides guidance on the LDI's approach to enforcing a 2025 law governing the minimum professional dispensing fee (PDF) PBMs must pay to local pharmacies. The agreement follows a recent decision by the 19^th Judicial District Court, which ruled in favor of the LDI over ESI on this matter.

"The 19^th JDC's ruling, along with Express Scripts' cooperation, allows us to move forward with consistent enforcement of professional dispensing fees for local pharmacies across the state," said Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple.

As part of the agreement, ESI will resolve all open complaints related to reimbursement appeals that were filed on or after March 1, the date Directive 257 took effect.

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state's insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by downloading our LDIConnect mobile app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, calling us at 800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.