Stay informed of new 2016 prescription drug benefits (with FAQ)
UPDATE: An FAQ document is now available to answer further questions.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2016, Express Scripts will take over as the prescription drugs benefits provider for HISD, and there are a few changes employees need to know about to prepare for this transition.
Express Scripts is replacing CVS/Caremark, and continues to offer a large and convenient network where employees can get prescriptions filled. Employees may also have 90-day prescriptions filled at Kroger, H-E-B, Costco, Randalls, Sam’s and Walmart or through Express Scripts’ mail order service. However, three-month supplies are not available through CVS/Caremark or Walgreens.
In December, eligible employees will receive a new member packet from Express Scripts. This packet will include a new Express Scripts Identification card and other important information about the HISD Pharmacy Program. Employees should use the district’s Employee Self-Service tool to ensure the district has their correct mailing address.
The switch to Express Scripts also means there is a change to the formulary – which is a list of preferred medications that the plan covers at less cost to you. This means some preferred medications will become non-preferred and some non-preferred medications will become preferred.
In December, employees will also receive a letter from Express Scripts notifying them if any of their medications are moving from the preferred list to the non-preferred list. Take this letter to your doctor to decide if alternative medications on the preferred list will work for you, so that you can take advantage of any potential savings. If you have questions before you get your new-member packet, contact Express Scripts (www.express-scripts.com or 855-712-0331) to get additional details.
Click here to read an FAQ about the partnership between HISD and Express Scripts.
