Cigna and Express Scripts Announce Acquisition Agreement

Cigna Corporation and Express Scripts announced an agreement in which Cigna will purchase the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) for $67 billion, which includes $15 billion in Express Scripts debt, according to a press release.

The acquisition includes $48.75 and 0.2434 shares of combined stock per PBM share, the release stated.

“Cigna’s acquisition of Express Scripts brings together two complementary customer-centric services companies, well-positioned to drive greater quality and affordability for customers,” David M. Cordani, president, CEO, Cigna said in the release. “This combination accelerates Cigna’s enterprise mission of improving the health, well-being and sense of security of those we serve, and in turn, expanding the breadth of services for our customers, partners, clients, health plans and communities. Together, we will create an expanded portfolio of health services, delivering greater consumer choice, closer alignment between the customer and health care provider, and more personalized value. This combination will create significant benefits to society and differentiated shareholder value.”

Cigna shareholders will own 64% of the new company, while Express Scripts shareholders will own 36%, according to the release.

The novel company will be led by Cordani as president and CEO, while Tim Wentworth, current president and CEO of Express Scripts, will remain president of Express Scripts.

The acquisition will focus on expanding choices, including a full suite of medical, behavioral, specialty pharmacy, and other health care services, according to Express Scripts. The companies said the consolidation will allow for better services.

For more information, go to SpecialtyPharmacyTimes.com.