2006 Changes to Humana Drug List

Effective January 1, 2006, all generic prescription drugs (with the exception of specialty drugs or drugs with an OTC [over-the-counter] equivalent) are being moved from Level 3 of Humana’s drug list. The Rx3 plan will have all generics in Level 1, and the Rx4 plan will have generics in Levels 1 and 2.

Historically, Humana’s Rx3 and Rx4 plans have had select “nonpreferred” generics in Level 3, and generic and brand-name drugs were in the same level. Some members misinterpreted this; Humana wants to encourage the use of generic drugs and hopes this redistribution will reinforce that.

When a generic drug becomes available in the marketplace, the corresponding brand-name drug will be put into Level 3. Members who take the brand-name drug, as well as members who take the generic, will be notified when this occurs. Members who continue taking the brand-name drug will pay the appropriate copayment and the cost differential between the generic drug and the brand-name drug. This is currently the case with Rx3 plans, and it will go into effect for Rx4 plans beginning January 1, 2006.

Humana hopes these changes will allow members to more easily compare the affordability of generic drugs to brand-name drugs.

For quick and convenient access, an up-to-date drug list is available to view and print through the Humana Provider Resource Center at www.humana.com. From Humana’s home page, simply click on “Providers,” then “Provider Resource Center,” then “Provider Tools.” Then click on “Prescription Tools & Resources” and “Drug Lists and Forms.” The printable version is also available via fax or e-mail by calling customer service at 1-800-4-HUMANA (1-800-448-6262).