New Survey Data Underscores Why Many Pharmacies Are Hesitant to Join MDPNP

As the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (MDPNP) prepares to roll out more broadly under the Inflation Reduction Act, recent data reveals growing concern among pharmacy owners and independent operators. The financial risks, cash-flow challenges, and regulatory uncertainties are motivating many to reconsider participation — even as stakeholders agree on the goal of lowering drug prices for patients.

Below is a snapshot of what recent surveys and comments from national pharmacy associations show, what the impacts may be, and what changes could make participation more viable.

What the Latest Data Reveals

• High reluctance to stock MDPNP drugs.
• In a survey of 405 pharmacy owners/managers done August 25–September 2, 2025, about 19% said they will not be stocking the negotiated (Maximum Fair Price, or MFP) drugs when MDPNP takes effect in early 2026.
• Moreover, 67% are “considering” doing the same