DePaul's Prescription Program - 2011

Lisa Feddema, BC/BS rep

The DES members at the May 20th DES Luncheon were pleased to hear Lisa, a representative from Blue Cross/Blue Shield, explain DePaul’s pharmacy program currently in place.

Effective January 1, 2011 the cost of purchasing pharmaceuticals are:
    • Retail: 30 % coinsurance, $10 minimum - $75 maximum (34 day supply)
    • Mail Order: 30% coinsurance, $20 minimum - $150 maximum (90 day supply)
    • Specialty Drugs: 30% coinsurance, $10 minimum - $75 maximum (30 day supply)

She noted that using generic drugs may significantly lower your out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions. If you are taking a brand drug, consider asking your doctor if a generic drug is an option for you. There are two types of generics:
    • Generic Equivalent – is made with the same active ingredients at the same dose as the brand counterpart. You can expect the same results as with the brand medication.
    • Generic Alternative – is often used to treat the same condition, but has different active ingredients from the brand drug or its generic equivalent, so overall results may vary.

Lisa provided some examples of what a retiree would pay out-of-pocket using various scenarios and shared examples of some generic equivalents that will be available in the coming years including Lipitor, Nexium, and Plavix.

In addition she shared information on Triessent, Prime’s Specialty Pharmacy program, which provides education and guidance from experienced professionals on managing conditions such as multiple sclerosis, hemophilia, hepatitis C and rheumatoid arthritis.

She encouraged us to make use of BlueAccess for Members at www.bcbsil.com It includes information on:
    • Formulary
    • Rx OTC List
    • Dispensing Limits

She also directed us to the Prime Website at www.myprime.com where we could:
    • Use a Pricing Calculator
    • Search for Generics
    • Register for Mail Order
    • Refill Mail Order Scripts
    • Find a Pharmacy

Alice Farrell, M&V; Rosa Perez and Diana Chin, HR

A handout from the presentation was made available to all in attendance.  Several members of the Benefit's Office were also in attendance to answer any questions the retirees might have.  Rosa Perez, DePaul AVP Benefits, told the retirees if they had further questions not to hesitate to contact DePaul’s Human Resource Office.

The retirees were most appreciative of the information received on the prescription program.  Thanks to Rosa and her staff.

Photos: David Sims