Cobalt Benefits Group and Navion Join Forces for Enhanced Pharmacy Benefit Management
In an era where health care costs continue to rise, Cobalt Benefits Group is taking a proactive approach by partnering with Navion, a highly regarded pharmacy benefit consultancy. This collaboration is aimed at improving pharmacy benefit management while also delivering substantial cost savings for employers leveraging self-funded benefit structures.
Cobalt Benefits Group, known for its innovative solutions as a third-party administrator (TPA), recently announced this strategic partnership following a successful pilot program that began in January 2025. The partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing the pharmacy expertise offered to Cobalt's clients across the U.S. With Navion serving as Cobalt's dedicated pharmacy benefit consultant, the integration promises not just improved contract terms but also a comprehensive framework that ensures transparency and better outcomes for employer groups.
At the heart of this partnership is a shared vision of implementing data-driven strategies that streamline pharmacy management. By integrating Navion’s analytics and clinical oversight directly into Cobalt’s operations, the two companies aim to unlock potential savings for their clients. For instance, groups that engage in the Cobalt/Navion model are already seeing projected savings of up to 22%. This could translate into thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars in annual savings without necessitating changes in Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) or member cards.
Jim Brown, Cobalt’s Chief Revenue Officer, emphasizes the importance of innovation and value in client relationships. “Our clients rely on us to deliver value and innovation,” he stated. Brown's remarks underline the company’s commitment to cutting costs without compromising the experiences of its members, which is made possible through Navion’s proven cost-containment strategies.
Navion adds substantial depth to Cobalt’s capabilities by offering bespoke clinical programs, including advanced strategies for managing drug therapies and independent prior authorization reviews. Additionally, features such as patient assistance programs, international sourcing options, and specialty co-pay support stand out as added values that make this collaboration particularly beneficial for both employers and their employees.
For Cheri Rambo, EVP of Business Development at Navion, this partnership presents a unique opportunity for holistic growth in pharmacy management. “Cobalt had the vision to bring a dedicated pharmacy expert to the table,” Rambo noted, accentuating Navion’s role in enhancing clinical oversight and contracting. By embedding these resources within Cobalt's framework, the collaboration aims to empower brokers and benefit consultants to effectively communicate savings opportunities to employers, thereby positioning Cobalt at the forefront of pharmacy management in the TPA market.
Furthermore, this combination enables Cobalt’s team to streamline quoting processes by leveraging Navion’s suite of resources. Tools such as repricing support, clinical team access, and consultative expertise are now at their fingertips, ensuring that they can meet the demands of pharmacy business effectively.
About Cobalt Benefits Group
Cobalt Benefits Group operates under a family of reputable TPA brands including Blue Benefit Administrators of Massachusetts (BBA), Comprehensive Benefits Administrators (CBA Blue), Great Bay Administrators (GBA), and Employee Benefit Plan Administrators (EBPA). The company specializes in self-funded plans, offering flexible and transparent solutions that cater to over 250,000 members across the United States. You can find more about their services at
cobaltbenefitsgroup.com.
About Navion
Navion is a pharmacy benefit consulting firm committed to helping clients—including brokers, benefit consultants, and self-funded employers—optimize their pharmacy expenses. With a national presence and a wealth of experience in pharmacy benefit management (PBM), Navion aims to empower its clients through transparency and enhanced outcomes. More information is available at
navionrx.com.
The Cobalt and Navion partnership stands as an exemplar for how industry collaborations can lead to enhanced services and improved financial outcomes for employers navigating the complexities of pharmacy benefits. As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, innovative partnerships like this one will be pivotal in shaping the future of employee health benefits.