The Competition Bureau of Canada has secured a court order to further investigate Express Scripts Canada, a company that processes prescription drug claims and operates mail-order pharmacies across Canada, excluding Quebec. This investigation aims to uncover any anti-competitive behavior that may hinder competition in the pharmacy retail market.

Key areas of concern include allegations of 'patient steering' through Preferred Provider Networks, which may compel Canadians to use pharmacies affiliated with Express Scripts Canada rather than their preferred choices. Additionally, the Bureau is examining practices that may lead to 'margin squeezing,' where increased service fees and burdensome audit processes could diminish the profit margins of competing retail pharmacies.

The investigation is being conducted under the restrictive trade provisions of the Competition Act, which are designed to protect against abuse of dominance and harmful agreements between businesses. It is important to note that, as of now, there has been no determination of wrongdoing by Express Scripts Canada.