PSG - Pharmaceutical Strategies Group

Custom RFP Development and PBM Procurement

PSG has engaged in more than 500 PBM procurement engagements, giving us a base of experience in the RFP and procurement process that is unparalleled in the industry. We go beyond simple comparisons of PBM capabilities to an overall assessment of the PBM’s business model and strengths and weaknesses from a qualitative and quantitative standpoint to ensure proper alignment with each client’s strategy.  This two-pronged approach provides our clients with a clear picture of the services and costs proposed by each potential PBM.

PSG deploys a subject matter expert within each area of pharmacy and PBM management (e.g., contractual, financial, clinical, and operational) to support the development and review of the RFP. We routinely hear from clients that this level of review of PBM capabilities and cost is the best in the industry and ensures proper alignment with each client’s program strategies and goals at the optimal cost.

The major work steps in our procurement process include:

• Collect client’s background information.
  • Pharmacy claims data.
  • Rebate values and process.
  • Plan design.PBM contract.
• Interview the client’s staff to understand current pharmacy program needs and issues including:
  • Operational, strategic, and financial considerations.How pharmacy integrates with other internal departments and the needs/issues of those groups related to the pharmacy program.
  • Clarify data and plan design questions.
  • Review and confirm deliverables, project participants, and timeline.
• Develop RFP document.
  • Incorporate wording that addresses the client’s bidding requirements and objectives.
  • Incorporate timeline for process based on agreement with the client.
  • Incorporate PBM performance guarantees and vendor requirements.
  • Draft RFP.
• Identify vendors to solicit.
  • Identify vendors that meet client’s needs and objectives.
  • Recommend vendors to solicit based on industry experience and the client’s requirements.
    
• Distribute RFP.
  • Send electronic RFP to selected vendors.
  • Follow up with vendors to confirm that they will bid and will submit response by deadline.
  • Answer bidders’ questions.
• Score RFPs utilizing PSG proprietary qualitative methodology.