Drug Coverage Changes in January 2014 Will Leave Many U.S. Consumers Paying Out of Pocket for Popular Brand Name Drugs
Winnipeg, Manitoba (PRWEB) November 20, 2013 -- Express Scripts and Caremark, two of the most prominent pharmacy benefits providers in the U.S., are planning to drop more than 50 popular brand-name medications from their formularies beginning January 1, 2014, report the New York Times and GoodRx. For the patients who rely on these medications to treat conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease and multiple sclerosis, this is worrisome news - especially since many of the medications being dropped do not have generic counterparts available in the United States. Some of these medications, particularly those used to treat multiple sclerosis, could cost patients several thousands of dollars out of pocket for a single month’s supply.
Even patients who think that they are not affected by these changes should double check their insurance plans because they may not realize that their medical coverage uses another company to provide pharmacy benefits. One group of people who will be heavily affected by these changes is active military, veterans and their immediate families. Prescription drug benefits for Tricare, the military’s insurance program, are handled by Express Scripts.
What can patients in this situation do to continue using the medications that their doctor has prescribed for them? David Zimmer, President of The Canadian Pharmacy, an online pharmacy based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, has a few suggestions.
"First of all," says Zimmer, "patients should check their coverage to find out whether they are affected by these significant changes. If you are in fact affected, schedule an appointment with your doctor to find out if an alternative medication is available that would provide you with the same health benefits as your current medication. If no other medication alternatives are available or you are concerned about the cost of your prescriptions, check the price of your medication on TheCanadianPharmacy.com to see how much money you can save ordering your medications through our company."
For over 10 years, The Canadian Pharmacy has been meeting the needs of patients seeking high quality medications without the hefty price tags found in U.S. pharmacies. Mr. Zimmer strongly encourages patients to give legitimate Canadian online pharmacies a try to find out more about the excellent customer service and convenience these services provide.
About The Canadian Pharmacy:
The Canadian Pharmacy is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and is certified by the Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA) as well as the Manitoba International Pharmacists Association (MIPA). The company is also accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has a 5-Check rating from the pharmacy rating service PharmacyChecker.com. Every member of the team holds a certification from CIPA and MIPA. Customer service and patient information are top priorities for The Canadian Pharmacy, and a full staff that includes experienced and dedicated licensed medical doctors, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians is ready and waiting to help patients.
David Zimmer, The Canadian Pharmacy, http://www.thecanadianpharmacy.com, +1 (866) 335-8064, [email protected]
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