Ways to save
Controlling drug costs is one of the major challenges of our healthcare system. Here are some ways you can lower your drug costs.
Generic drugs can cost up to 80% less than their brand-name counterparts. Made with the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, generics are also equivalent in dosage, safety, strength, quality, performance and intended use.
Maintenance medications are used to treat chronic or long-term conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and are taken on a regular, recurring basis. You can get up to a three-month supply of your maintenance medications for the cost of only two copays at any in-network pharmacy, including through mail order.
By using mail order, you get the added convenience of having your prescriptions delivered right to your home. You can sign up for mail order by calling CareFirst Pharmacy Services at 800-241-3371, through My Account, or by completing the Mail Order Pharmacy Form (PDF).
The Drug Pricing Tool allows you to compare the cost of a drug purchased at a pharmacy versus mail order. You can also view generic drugs available at a lower cost. Always discuss medication options with your doctor or pharmacist to see if a generic drug is right for you. To access the drug pricing tool, login to My Account and select "Drug and Pharmacy Resources" under "Coverage."
The outpatient hospital setting is generally recognized as one of the most costly options for specialty infusions with costs up to three times higher compared to non-hospital settings. Administration of select infusions are approved at an outpatient hospital setting only if medical necessity criteria are met at the time of prior authorization. You may have the option to receive your infusion at an approved alternate site. These sites include the comfort of your home, an ambulatory infusion center or a doctor’s office.
CareFirst’s Preferred Drug List includes generic and preferred brand drugs selected for their quality, effectiveness and safety by our pharmacy benefit manager’s national Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) committee. By using the Preferred Drug List, you can work with your doctor or pharmacist to make safe and cost-effective decisions to better manage your healthcare and out-of-pocket costs. Non-preferred drugs aren’t included on the Preferred Drug List; they are still covered but at the highest cost share. Also, some drugs on the Preferred Drug List may not be covered based on your plan.