Survey Reveals: Americans Surprised by Prescription Costs but Rarely Discuss Financial Challenges With Pharmacists

Study from Specialty Pharmacy Lumicera Finds Gap Between Pharmacy Cost Concerns and Consumer Action

New research from Lumicera Health Services, the specialty pharmacy subsidiary of Navitus Health Solutions, reveals a dual challenge in healthcare today: many Americans are feeling the strain of prescription costs, yet most aren't taking full advantage of the pharmacists they trust. A survey of 2,000 Americans aged 18+ found that 75% have been surprised by the cost of a medication – but few are initiating conversations that could lead to solutions. 74% of respondents have never discussed financial challenges with their doctor or pharmacist.

"Our survey reveals an opportunity to improve medication affordability through better patient-pharmacist dialogue," said Ben Heiser, PharmD, MBA, CSP, LSSGB, General Manager of Specialty Pharmacy at Lumicera Health Services. "When patients don't bring up cost concerns, they miss access to assistance programs, generic alternatives, and other resources pharmacists can connect them with. This silence can affect both affordability and medication adherence."

Despite high levels of trust, most people aren't actively engaging with their pharmacists. 89% say they feel comfortable asking questions and 75% value having a pharmacist who recognizes them personally – yet 55% rarely ask about their medications, and 21% don't ask for any information at all. Conversations about coverage, side effects, or lower-cost alternatives are often left on the table.

Key Findings:

• Cost surprises and research habits exist independently. 75% have been surprised by prescription prices, while separately, 56% don't research cost-saving alternatives and 54% have never compared prices across major retailers like Walmart, Costco, or Walgreens.
• Affordability is a concern, but it often goes unspoken. 33% of respondents have experienced challenges affording medications, yet 74% haven't brought up financial concerns with a pharmacist or physician.
• Many are skipping medications entirely. 30% have chosen not to pick up a prescription due to cost, travel distance, or long wait times at the pharmacy.
• Awareness of specialty pharmacy is growing, but use remains limited. 75% understand what sets specialty pharmacies apart from retail or mail-order options and 59% can name a specialty drug or condition – but only 38% have ever filled a prescription through one.

"The results of this survey demonstrate why Lumicera's approach to specialty pharmacy is so impactful," Heiser added. "By actively engaging with patients and proactively addressing both clinical and financial concerns, we help people navigate complex therapies successfully. Our cost-plus model creates transparency that builds trust, and our high-touch care model ensures patients receive the support they need to stay on therapy."

To read more about the survey and results, visit: https://www.lumicera.com/multi-media-library/healthcare-consumer-poll-results/

Survey Methodology:

The survey was conducted online by Lumicera Health Services via Pollfish on February 19, 2025, among 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. Respondents were 57% women and 43% men.

About Lumicera Health Services

Lumicera Health Services, a leading specialty pharmacy solutions provider, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Navitus Health Solutions, which is owned by SSM Health and Costco Wholesale Corporation. Founded in 2014, Lumicera is committed to improving specialty pharmacy care, one patient at a time, through educational, clinical, financial and service excellence. This is achieved by bringing clinicians closer to patients and driving positive outcomes through innovative practices and strategic partnerships. For more information, visit www.lumicera.com.

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