Pharmacy FAQ's
The Department of Human Resources has compiled the following list of frequently asked questions for Pharmacy Benefits. If your question has not been answered at this site, please contact us at (325) 942-2168.
Q. What's the difference between generic and brand-name drugs?
A. Generic and brand-name drugs generally contain the same active ingredients. Brand-name drugs typically are more expensive because the company which originally develops them spends a lot of money on research and testing before putting the drug on the market. The drug company makes up for some of this developmental cost in the price it charges for the drug. After a time, other drug companies are allowed to make a generic equivalent; but they generally do not have to charge as much, because all they have to do is manufacture the drug. In most cases, the research and testing have already been done.
Q. What is the difference between preferred brand-name and non-preferred brand-name drugs?
A. A preferred brand-name drug is a commonly prescribed medication that has been selected based on its clinical effectiveness and safety. A non-preferred brand-name drug has therapeutic alternatives that are listed in the Preferred Prescription Formulary Guide. The Prescription Drug Program includes a three-level copayment structure for generic, preferred brand-name, and non-preferred brand-name drugs.
Q. Where can I find a list of preferred brand-name drugs?
A. The HealthSelect Preferred Perscription Member Guide can be found at: Rx Members Guide
Q. Do I have to satisfy a deductible for medications?
A. Yes. Effective September 1, 2003, a $50 deductible per person, per plan year (September through August) must be paid before the pharmacy plan begins to pay benefits.
Q. Can my prescription drug copayments be used to satisfy my calendar year deductible or coinsurance?
A. No, your prescription drug copayments do not apply to your calendar year deductible or coinsurance.
Q. What are the copayments for prescription drugs?
A. Generic drugs costs $10. Brand-name preferred drugs (often referred to as formulary drugs) cost $25, and brand-name non-preferred drug copayments are $40. If using the mail order program, the copayments for a 90-day supply are $30, $75, and $120, respectively.
Q. How can I get a mail order application?
A. Medco Health Home Delivery Form
Q. How can I get a Drug Reimbursement form?
A. The Drug Reimbursement form can be downloaded here: Drug Reimbursement Forms
Q. How can I find out if certain medications require authorization from Medco Health?
A. Prescription Drug Management Programs
Q. How can I find a participating retail pharmacy?
A. Simply click on the Medco Health website, enter your member number, member's (cardholder's) date of birth and location using either a valid zip code or the city and state. When entering the city and state, please be sure to include a comma between the city name and the state abbreviation.
Q. What is Medco Health's customer service phone number?
A. Medco Health customer service representatives can be reached at: (800) 903-8345
Q. Are glucometer strips (glucostrips, dextrosticks) and lancets covered?
A. Yes; however, lancets and glucometer strips are considered medical expenses, not prescription drug expenses. To file a claim, attach your cash register receipt to a completed Medical Claim Form, and mail to HealthSelect.