Understanding the Distinction Between Price Transparency, Affordability, and Medication Adherence

By
Catherine S. Hwang
Michael A. Steinman
October 5, 2026

Journal Of General Internal Medicine

Objective:

To explore the role of real-time benefit tools (RTBTs) in clinical practice and their impact on medication affordability and adherence.

Approach:

Qualitative Analysis: Interviews with 35 primary care clinicians to understand their perspectives and experiences with RTBTs.

Key Findings:

Clinicians have limited education and knowledge about RTBTs and are open to further training.
RTBTs may improve patient care by facilitating cost discussions and reducing administrative burdens, but they do not address the fundamental issues of high medication prices.
Inaccurate or incomplete information from RTBTs can foster mistrust and impede adoption.

Interpretation:

RTBTs are becoming more prevalent due to regulatory changes, but they do not address the fundamental issues of high medication prices and the multifactorial causes of medication non-adherence.

Limitations:

RTBTs may not provide complete pharmacy benefits information for all patients.
Cost estimates from RTBTs can be inaccurate.
RTBTs do not address broader systemic issues affecting medication affordability.

Conclusion:

While RTBTs have potential benefits, they should not distract from addressing the root causes of high medication prices and the multifaceted nature of medication adherence.