Prescription Drug Program administered by Highmark Blue Shield.
- Pharmacy FAQ's
- Medicare Creditable Coverage Notice
- Mail Order Information and Form
- Express Scripts Website (Highmark's Mail Order Pharmacy)
- Prescription Drug Reimbursement Form
- Prescription Drug Summary
Prescription Coverage Summary
| Prescription Drug Tier | Retail Copay (30-day supply) | Mail-Order Copay (90-day supply) |
| Generic | $10 | $20 |
| Brand Drugs, Formulary | $30 | $60 |
| Brand Drugs, Nonforumulary | $50 | $100 |
Certain prescription drugs are subject to prior authorization requirements, quantity
level limits, or other management programs to ensure that these medications are being
used in a safe and effective manner, and to help both you and the health plan control
costs. If you are taking a prescription drug in one of these drug classes, you may
receive a letter from Highmark advising you of any additional requirements with which
you or your medical provider may need to comply.
Managed Rx Coverage Program
The managed prescription drug coverage (MRxC) program consists of online edits that
encourage the safe and effective use of targeted medications to meet the clinical
needs of members. To better manage the rising cost of these medications, the MRxC
program also promotes the use of lower cost brand and generic medications. Many of
the criteria are automated in order to reduce the administrative burden on physicians
and to reduce member disruption.
Managed Prior Authorization Program
Certain medications will require prior authorization to ensure the medical necessity
and appropriateness of the prescription order as defined by Highmark prior authorization
policies. The member’s prescriber must obtain authorization from the Plan, prior to
dispensing the medication by a retail pharmacy or through mail order, if applicable,
otherwise the medication will not be covered by the Plan.
Step Edit Program
Generic medications can reduce prescription cost, and increase medication adherence
while providing the same benefits as the brand name medication. This policy defines
the criteria under which coverage for a brand name medication will be considered when
generic products are available within the same therapeutic class. Medications targeted
in program are used to treat acid reflux, cholesterol, and depression.
Specialty Medication information
If you or a covered family member need(s) to take a specialty medication, you will
need to obtain the prescription from Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy, a mail-order pharmacy
provider solely focused on specialty medications.
Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy has negotiated with Highmark to provide the deepest discounts
on specialty medications, which can average $5,000 or more in cost per month. Additionally,
this vendor offers a dedicated care coordinator to provide support to patients. For
additional questions or concerns, contact Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy at 1-888-347-3416.
What is a specialty medication?
Specialty medications are used to treat chronic, rare, or complex conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or cancer). Additionally, specialty medications may:
- Be given by infusion, injection, or taken orally.
- Cost more than traditional medications.
- Have special storage and handling requirements.
- Need to be taken on a very strict schedule.
- Have support programs and services available to help patients receive the most benefit from their medication