Important Announcement Regarding
Blue Shield’s Coverage of Brand Lipitor® at a Generic Copayment
On November 30, 2011, the cholesterol-lowering brand-name medication, Lipitor, will become available in generic form. For the first six months, the price of generic Lipitor (atorvastatin) is expected to remain high because only two manufacturers will have exclusive rights to produce, market, and sell generic atorvastatin.
As a result of the high prices, Blue Shield will implement a program to provide coverage of brand-name Lipitor at a generic copayment for most commercial members effective November 30, 2011 to May 28, 2012.
Blue Shield’s participating network pharmacies have already been informed, including instructions on how to process brand-name Lipitor. During the duration of the program generic Lipitor will not be covered at retail pharmacies and at PrimeMail pharmacy and will be rejected with a message to pharmacies to “Dispense Brand Lipitor”.
Beginning November 30, 2011, if you are a member of a plan included in this program, you will be informed by your pharmacy that your lower applicable generic copayment applies when you fill or refill your prescription for brand-name Lipitor.
The following plans are excluded from this program:
- Commercial High-Deductible HSA eligible plans
- Medicare Part D individual and employer group plans
- Members with Blue Shield who do not have an outpatient pharmacy benefit
For additional question about the Lipitor program or about your pharmacy benefits, please call the customer service number on your Blue Shield member ID card or visit www.blueshieldca.com.
