April 2010
Generic medication programs
The Generic Incentive Program can save members money
This program allows members to receive a generic alternative (up to a one-month supply) to many popular brand-name medications at no charge.
How does this program work?
- If you write a prescription for a generic in this program, your patient can receive a one-month supply of the selected generic at his or her retail pharmacy at no charge. (The program is automatically coded.)
- For future generic refills, your patient will pay the lowest copayment and can save money.
- View the list of covered generics (PDF).
What are the other benefits of this program?
- Generics are on the formulary and do not require prior authorization which may decrease incoming calls from pharmacies and patients.
- Your patient can try a generic with ease. The program does not require special circumstances, coupons or special prescriptions and there are no stock samples requiring storage space.
New Generics First Programs
Many new generic medications continue to become available. In most cases, generics offer identical effectiveness compared to brand-name medications, at reduced prices. RegenceRx has created new Generics First programs for the triptans and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
- As of December 2009, all new prescriptions for a brand-name triptan require that the patient first try sumitriptan (available as tablet, nasal spray and injection).
- Beginning this month, all new prescriptions for brand-name ARBs require that the patient first try a generic ace inhibitor. A letter will be sent to prescribers regarding this program.
If for some reason a generic medication does not work for your patient, you can send in a prior authorization request (PDF) with your patient's medication history to request authorization for a brand-name medication.