What is a generic drug?
A term used for prescription drugs identified by their chemical name -- a bioequivalent to the brand name drug made available to the public after the patent has expired on the brand name drug. The generic version usually results in a less expensive drug.
Can I fill my prescriptions by mail?
Yes, when you need a prescription drug on an ongoing basis, you can mail your prescription and mail order form to Medco Health mail order service to receive prescriptions for up to a 90-day supply of medication.
What are preferred brand name drugs?
Also known as formulary drugs, this is a list of commonly prescribed medications that are selected based on their clinical effectiveness and opportunities to help control your plan’s costs.
What about retail pharmacies? Can I get my prescriptions there, too?
When you need a prescription on a short-term basis, you can fill your prescription at a local participating network pharmacy to receive prescriptions for up to a 30-day supply.
Some pharmacies offer $4 pricing for some qualified generics. If a GuideStone member uses his or her Medco benefits at a participating Walmart pharmacy (or any other discount pharmacy) for a qualified generic, what will he or she be charged for the prescription?
The member will always pay the lesser of “usual and customary” (for example, $4 for some generics at Walmart) and copay for prescriptions whether at Walmart or any retail pharmacy.
Do members have to use their Medco benefits at Walmart or other discount pharmacies to get this pricing?
No. Members do not have to use their pharmacy benefits to get the lesser pricing for qualified prescriptions at participating discount pharmacies. Should they choose to use their Medco benefits (by showing their ID card), they will still only pay the lower price for qualified generic prescriptions and have the added advantage of Medco’s virtual pharmacy program. This program keeps track of each member’s prescription history — whether the prescription was filled through a retail pharmacy or through home delivery — and automatically checks for drug interactions. If necessary, Medco then provides the pharmacist with additional information or warnings.
Are specialty medications covered on GuideStone health plans?
Yes. GuideStone health plan participants have access to specialty medications through Accredo, Medco’s specialty pharmacy. Accredo has been working with specialty medications for over 25 years, and they offer specialty-focused care and monitoring.
Accredo is dedicated to serving patients with complex conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Hemophilia
- Immune deficiency
- Multiple sclerosis
- Osteoporosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
For a complete list of drug therapies and to get started with Accredo, visit the website.
What are the benefits of utilizing a specialty pharmacy?
If you’re a GuideStone member taking specialty medications, those medications are filled through Accredo, Medco’s specialty pharmacy. Accredo understands the unique care you require while taking specialty medications. You can enjoy several benefits of their customized service, including:
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Trained professionals. Accredo’s pharmacists and nurses have received specialized training to treat complex conditions.
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24/7 clinical support. If you have questions anytime, you can talk to a pharmacist or nurse who knows about your medications.
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Access to supplies. Supplies to administer your medications — syringes, sharps containers — are available, too.
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Nurse assistance. If you’re taking a medication that must be administered by a nurse, Accredo will coordinate with your doctor’s office or infusion center and provide a qualified nurse. If you administer yourself, you can access Accredo’s one-on-one training.
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Quality delivery on time. Some medications require refrigeration or special handling. You can schedule a delivery that works with your schedule.
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Ongoing support. Accredo stays in touch with you to make sure you have the medications and supplies you need. Their pharmacists and nurses coordinate with your doctor to help guard against drug interactions.
For more information, visit Accredo online.