The Economics of Rheumatology Practice in the United States

The current environment shaping rheumatology practice economics, with a focus on revenues, is described. The policies and practices of private and public insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are summarized, identifying economic implications for rheumatologists. The role of rebates in shaping practice economics is discussed, along with the central role of payers in defining PBM policies.