Which is a core PBM activity?

• A. Marketing campaigns
• B. Rebates
• C. Lab testing
• D. Surgical scheduling

Answer: (B)

The main concept is that PBMs focus on reducing prescription drug costs for payers by negotiating rebates with drug manufacturers. Rebates are payments manufacturers provide in exchange for placing their drugs on preferred spots in the formulary or for achieving certain volume targets, and they directly lower the net price that the plan bears. This negotiation and the resulting rebates shape which drugs are favored, helping to control overall drug spend for the payer.

Marketing campaigns, lab testing, and surgical scheduling fall outside the core function of PBMs. Marketing is about promoting products, lab testing is a clinical service, and surgical scheduling is part of care delivery logistics.