STAT+: Cigna, extending reach into prescription drugs, acquires major pharmacy used by hospitals

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Source: STAT News

Original: https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/26/cigna-carepathrx-acquisition-vertical-integr...

Published: Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:24:14 +0000

Cigna acquired CarepathRx, a major private equity-backed pharmacy that dispenses prescription drugs to nearly 10% of US hospitals.[1] The acquisition was revealed in Cigna's financial filings.[1] The move reinforces the company's bid to control more of the flow of drugs through the US health care system.[1] Cigna management has repeatedly told investors that prescription drug management is one of its top priorities since its $54 billion acquisition of Express Scripts in 2018.[1] This is an example of vertical integration, in which health insurance companies expand their activities outside the core business.[1] This industry trend is resulting in fewer firms dominating more parts of healthcare.[1]