Express Scripts’ EncircleRx Program Tackles GLP-1 Challenges | PBMI Innovator

As GLP-1 medications reshape the pharmacy landscape, Express Scripts has taken a proactive approach through its EncircleRx program—an effort that helped earn Kasey Raetz, Pharm.D., the PBMI Innovator Award from Managed Healthcare Executive.

For Raetz, much of that innovation has centered on the rapidly growing demand for GLP-1 medications, a class of drugs used for diabetes and weight management. In an interview with MHE, she said that the category’s growth has been unlike anything the industry has seen before, creating both opportunities and challenges.

In response, Express Scripts launched its EncircleRx program more than a year and a half ago, with the aim of balancing patient access, care support and financial sustainability.

Raetz said it was launched at a time when there wasn’t a real solution in the industry.

“GLP-1 spend and trend was skyrocketing. I’ve never seen a category with so much demand and every person in America, whether they’re in the industry or not, can name these drugs by name, which is just incredible,” she said. “We just have never seent his before.”

EncircleRx was built on three main goals.

First, it ensures that appropriate patients continue to have access to GLP-1 drugs, which Raetz described as highly effective therapies. Second, the program provides support specifically for weight loss patients. Beyond simply dispensing medication, the model integrates lifestyle and behavioral resources such as coaching, therapy, nutrition guidance and behavior modification tools. This holistic approach is designed to improve long-term outcomes.

The third component of EncircleRx is financial protection for plan sponsors. By offering financial guarantees, Express Scripts gives employers, and health plans a way to budget more predictably in a drug category with rapidly rising costs.

Raetz added this combination of patient support and financial accountability has been key to the program’s success. With demand for GLP-1 medications continuing to grow, she emphasized that innovative solutions like EncircleRx will be essential for maintaining access while managing costs for both patients and payers.