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If you have BlueCross BlueShield, the coverage of your prescription changes.
The insurance company will no longer cover the costs of OxyContin.
This new policy begins on January 1, 2019.
If you have a pre-authorized prescription for OxyContin, you can finish the prescription beyond that date.
"It's for the safety of our members," said Mary Danielson, BlueCross BlueShield spokesperson for Tennessee. "BlueCross is making additional changes to the way we cover opioids."
This will impact the fully insured people who have BlueCross through their employer and the Affordable Care Act.
Patients with cancer, hospice and health insurance are excluded.
"When their doctor files a prior authorization, they will get automatic approval," said Danielson.
Instead of OxyContin, two other "anti-abuse" drugs will be offered. This will keep the co-pays the same.
"We are also putting in place an initial seven-day limit for a short-acting opioid prescription," Danielson said.
Chad Clardy with Addictions Campus said that something had to be done but he was not sold for this change.
"We are currently at the heart of a huge epidemic of opioids," said Clardy. "Many people who are already attached to OxyContin will turn to different areas by calling drug traffickers and heroin is a much less expensive option.
According to the Tennessee Department of Health, 1,268 people died after an overdose of opioids in 2017. Of these, 644 were associated with prescription opioids.
"Opioid addiction will make you do things you do not want to do, take you to places you do not want to go and keep you longer than you want," Clardy said.
BlueCross BlueShield said this decision was not without the research and support of doctors and other experts.
The goal is to start fighting the epidemic of opioids to save lives.
If someone you know needs help, call the Helpline at 888-614-2251 or visit their website.
Copyright 2018 WSMV (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
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