IBC Flash

December 4, 2007

Select Drug Formulary Changes Effective 1/1/08

We’re writing to provide you with a list of our most recent changes to the Select Drug Program^® formulary and our guidelines concerning procedures that support safe prescribing.

Forthcoming Changes

Our formulary is the key to the Select Drug Program. The formulary includes all generic drugs and a defined list of brand drugs — all of which have been selected for their medical effectiveness, safety, and value.

To ensure the continued effectiveness of the drugs on our formulary as well as our procedures for safe prescribing, the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee conducts regular reviews. The Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee is primarily composed of practicing physicians and pharmacists in this area. As a result of the committee’s recent reviews, we’re implementing several changes, including:

• additions of generic drugs to the formulary;

• addition and deletion of brand drugs to or from the formulary;

• additions to our list of drugs that require the doctor to obtain prior authorization.

Please note: The brand drug being removed will now be covered at the highest non-formulary cost-sharing level.

Click here to view the list of formulary updates.

Communicating to Customers

All employer groups and members with Select Drug Program coverage will receive a letter about these changes and an updated formulary guide.

Click here to view a PDF of the new formulary guide.

Letters to members who are directly affected by the removal of the brand drug will include a message urging them to contact their doctors to discuss formulary alternatives, including possible generic drugs. If a doctor decides a formulary medication is appropriate, the member will need to ask for a new prescription for the formulary medication.

As the No Pay Copay promotion draws to a close, we are also including a flyer in the member mailing as a reminder to take advantage of cost savings by choosing a generic when appropriate.

Click here to view the flyer.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact your Independence Blue Cross account executive.

We want to thank you for your continued support. We are working hard to meet and exceed our customers’ needs, and you are an integral part of that process.

Click here to view a sample of the IBC group letter.

Click here to view a sample of the IBC generic member letter.

Click here to view a sample of the IBC targeted member letter.

Independence Blue Cross offers products directly, through its subsidiaries Keystone Health Plan East and QCC Insurance Company, and with Highmark Blue Shield. Independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.