Express Scripts SVP Harold Carter on GLP-1s & the Future of Pharmacy Benefits

GLP-1 therapies are transforming pharmacy benefits, and Express Scripts is leading the way. Harold Carter, PharmD, SVP of Trade Relations, joins host Eric Glazer to discuss how one of the nation’s largest PBMs is navigating this disruptive moment in healthcare.

Harold shares how Express Scripts is:

• Capping costs of GLP-1 therapies to expand patient access while keeping plan spending predictable.

• Redesigning funding models to strike a balance between affordability, predictability, and outcomes.

• Leveraging digital tools and AI to reduce friction in the member experience and support long-term adherence.

• Rethinking formularies not just as cost-control tools but as part of a broader population health and behavioral change ecosystem.

You’ll also hear his forward-looking perspective on how PBMs will evolve over the next three to five years, and the key questions health plans and employers should be asking today to prepare for the future of pharmacy benefits.

About Dr. Harold Carter:

Harold Carter, PharmD, is responsible for leading all interactions and contracting with pharmaceutical manufacturers and oversees strategy and management of Express Scripts’ drug formularies, data & insights, client underwriting, and product strategy and development. In his nearly 14 years with the organization, Harold has held numerous leadership roles oriented around critical efforts to lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensuring medication access for Express Scripts clients and members. Harold’s previous responsibilities include oversight of the organization’s medical pharma contracting and drug procurement teams, as well as leading the strategy, development and execution of Express Scripts’ wholesale market, value-based solutions and generic strategy, and development of Express Scripts’ advanced utilization management solutions. 

In addition to his work at Express Scripts, Harold serves on numerous boards including LifeWise Stl Board of Directors, St. Louis University High School Board of Trustees and IVI Board of Directors. Harold earned his doctorate in pharmacy from St. Louis College of Pharmacy.

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We help healthcare leaders discover what’s working, and how to scale it. By bringing together health plan, hospital, and solution leaders, we facilitate the exchange of ideas that lead to measurable impact. Through our podcast, executive councils, private events, and go-to-market strategy work, we surface and amplify the “bright spots” in healthcare, proven innovations others can learn from and replicate. At our core, we exist to create trusted relationships that make real progress possible. Visit our website at http://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com.