Updated Pharmacy Coverage for Vitamin and Supplement Products

Premera regularly reviews prescriptions to make sure they meet standards of medical need, safety, cost, and best medical practices for members.

Starting January 1, 2019, certain vitamins and supplements will no longer be covered.

Premera is making this change because:

  • The pharmacy benefit only covers medications designated as a prescription drug.
  • The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) designates a medication as a prescription after reviewing its clinical trials and approving it as effective for treating a medical condition.
How Premera is telling employees

Premera is sending letters about the change to your impacted employees. Members may continue to take these vitamins, but will be responsible for the full cost. If benefits include an FSA or HSA, they may be able to use those funds to cover the cost. The letter will include a customer service number they can call for additional information.

If you have questions, please reach out to your producer or sales representative.

 

If you have any questions on our small group plans and processes, please contact Connexion’s PBC WA Small Group Team at 1-888-742-1475.