Americans surprised by Rx costs, rarely talk to pharmacists, doctors about challenges

New research from Lumicera Health Services, the specialty pharmacy subsidiary of Navitus Health Solutions, reveals a dual challenge in healthcare today: many Americans are feeling the strain of prescription costs, yet most aren't taking full advantage of the pharmacists they trust. 

A survey of 2,000 Americans aged 18+ found that 75% have been surprised by the cost of a medication – but few are initiating conversations that could lead to solutions. Seventy-four percent of respondents have never discussed financial challenges with their doctor or pharmacist.

"Our survey reveals an opportunity to improve medication affordability through better patient-pharmacist dialogue," said Ben Heiser, general manager of specialty pharmacy at Lumicera Health Services. "When patients don't bring up cost concerns, they miss access to assistance programs, generic alternatives and other resources pharmacists can connect them with. This silence can affect both affordability and medication adherence."

[Read more: Unleashing the Power of Medication Adherence: Empowering Patients and Caregivers] 

Despite high levels of trust, most people aren't actively engaging with their pharmacists. Eighty-nine percent say they feel comfortable asking questions and 75% value having a pharmacist who recognizes them personally—yet 55% rarely ask about their medications, and 21% don't ask for any information at all. Conversations about coverage, side effects or lower-cost alternatives are often left on the table.

Key findings:

• Cost surprises and research habits exist independently. Seventy-five percent have been surprised by prescription prices, while separately, 56% don't research cost-saving alternatives and 54% have never compared prices across major retailers like Walmart, Costco or Walgreens.
• Affordability is a concern, but it often goes unspoken. Thirty-three percent of respondents have experienced challenges affording medications, yet 74% haven't brought up financial concerns with a pharmacist or physician.
• Many are skipping medications entirely. Thirty percent have chosen not to pick up a prescription due to cost, travel distance or long wait times at the pharmacy.
• Awareness of specialty pharmacy is growing, but use remains limited. Seventy-five understand what sets specialty pharmacies apart from retail or mail-order options and 59% can name a specialty drug or condition—but only 38% have ever filled a prescription through one.

"The results of this survey demonstrate why Lumicera's approach to specialty pharmacy is so impactful," Heiser added. "By actively engaging with patients and proactively addressing both clinical and financial concerns, we help people navigate complex therapies successfully. Our cost-plus model creates transparency that builds trust, and our high-touch care model ensures patients receive the support they need to stay on therapy."

[Read more: GoodRx debuts Prescription Cost Tracker]

To read more about the survey and results, visit here.

The survey was conducted online by Lumicera Health Services via Pollfish on Feb. 19, 2025, among 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. Respondents were 57% women and 43% men.