Florida AG launches investigation into CVS Health over pharmacy competition concerns

June 23, 2026 - 20:32

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has opened an investigation into CVS Health Corporation, issuing a Civil Investigative Demand to the company over concerns about fair competition in the pharmacy market. The probe targets CVS Health, which operates both the Caremark pharmacy benefit manager and hundreds of CVS retail pharmacies throughout the state.

The investigation focuses on whether CVS Health's business practices unfairly limit competition among pharmacies. Attorney General Uthmeier's office is looking into potential conflicts of interest, given that CVS Health controls a major pharmacy benefit manager while also running a large chain of retail pharmacies. This dual role raises questions about whether the company uses its position to steer patients toward its own stores at the expense of independent pharmacies and other competitors.

The Civil Investigative Demand requires CVS Health to provide documents and information related to its business operations in Florida. The state is examining how the company's pharmacy benefit manager handles prescription drug pricing, reimbursement rates, and patient access to medications. Critics have long argued that large pharmacy benefit managers can squeeze out smaller pharmacies by setting unfair terms.

CVS Health has not yet issued a public response to the investigation. The probe adds to growing scrutiny nationwide of pharmacy benefit managers and their impact on drug pricing and competition. Florida's action signals a continued push by state officials to address concerns in the pharmaceutical supply chain.