Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) offers a variety of tools to help lower medication costs for its members. With the rising costs of prescription medications, it's essential for individuals and families to have access to resources that can help make their medications more affordable. In this article, we'll explore 12+ BCBSM tools that can help lower medication costs, providing members with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
Introduction to BCBSM Tools
BCBSM has developed a range of tools and resources to help members manage their medication costs. From online portals to mobile apps, these tools provide members with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Some of the key tools offered by BCBSM include:
- Online prescription drug pricing tool
- Mobile app for tracking medication costs
- Personalized medication therapy management
- Generic and biosimilar drug options
- Mail-order pharmacy services
- Specialty pharmacy programs
- Pharmaceutical manufacturer discounts
- Copay assistance programs
- Patient assistance programs
- Medication adherence programs
- Drug utilization review
- Pharmacy network management
Online Prescription Drug Pricing Tool
BCBSM’s online prescription drug pricing tool allows members to compare prices for their medications at different pharmacies. This tool can help members find the most affordable option for their prescription medications, saving them money on their out-of-pocket costs. The tool is available through the BCBSM website and can be accessed by logging in to a member’s online account.
| Tool Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price comparison | Compare prices for medications at different pharmacies |
| Pharmacy locator | Find pharmacies in the BCBSM network |
| Medication pricing | View pricing information for specific medications |
Mobile App for Tracking Medication Costs
BCBSM’s mobile app allows members to track their medication costs and stay on top of their prescriptions. The app provides members with access to their medication history, including costs and refill information. Members can also use the app to find pharmacies in the BCBSM network and compare prices for their medications.
The mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. By using the app, members can take control of their medication costs and make informed decisions about their healthcare.
Generic and Biosimilar Drug Options
Generic and biosimilar drugs can be a cost-effective alternative to brand-name medications. BCBSM offers a range of generic and biosimilar drug options, which can help members save money on their prescription medications. Generic drugs are equivalent to brand-name medications in terms of quality, strength, and purity, but are often significantly cheaper.
Biosimilar drugs, on the other hand, are highly similar to brand-name biologic medications, but may have some minor differences in terms of their inactive ingredients. Biosimilar drugs can be just as effective as brand-name biologic medications, but are often cheaper.
| Drug Type | Description | Cost Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | Equivalent to brand-name medications | Up to 80% cheaper |
| Biosimilar | Highly similar to brand-name biologic medications | Up to 30% cheaper |
Mail-Order Pharmacy Services
BCBSM’s mail-order pharmacy services allow members to have their medications delivered directly to their homes. This can be a convenient option for members who have busy schedules or have difficulty getting to the pharmacy. Mail-order pharmacy services can also help members save money on their prescription medications, as they often offer discounts for bulk orders.
BCBSM's mail-order pharmacy services are available for a range of medications, including maintenance medications and specialty medications. Members can enroll in the mail-order pharmacy program by contacting BCBSM customer service or by logging in to their online account.
How do I enroll in BCBSM's mail-order pharmacy program?
+To enroll in BCBSM's mail-order pharmacy program, contact BCBSM customer service or log in to your online account. You will need to provide your medication information and choose your preferred shipping method.
Can I use BCBSM's online prescription drug pricing tool to compare prices for my medications?
+Yes, you can use BCBSM's online prescription drug pricing tool to compare prices for your medications. The tool is available through the BCBSM website and can be accessed by logging in to your online account.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Discounts
BCBSM has partnered with pharmaceutical manufacturers to offer discounts on certain medications. These discounts can help members save money on their prescription medications, especially for brand-name medications that may not have generic or biosimilar alternatives.
BCBSM's pharmaceutical manufacturer discounts are available for a range of medications, including medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Members can check their eligibility for these discounts by logging in to their online account or by contacting BCBSM customer service.
Copay Assistance Programs
Copay assistance programs can help members with their out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications. These programs are often offered by pharmaceutical manufacturers and can provide members with significant savings on their medications.
BCBSM's copay assistance programs are available for a range of medications, including medications for chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Members can check their eligibility for these programs by logging in to their online account or by contacting BCBSM customer service.
Patient Assistance Programs
Patient assistance programs can help members who are struggling to afford their prescription medications. These programs are often offered by pharmaceutical manufacturers and can provide members with free or low-cost medications.
BCBSM's patient assistance programs are available for a range of medications, including medications for chronic conditions such as HIV and cancer. Members can check their eligibility for these programs by logging in to their online account or by contacting BCBSM customer service.
Medication Adherence Programs
Medication adherence programs can help members stay on top of their treatment plans and improve their health outcomes. These programs often include reminders and alerts to help members remember to take their medications, as well as education and support to help members understand their medications and manage any side effects.
BCBSM's medication adherence programs are available for a range of medications, including medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Members can enroll in these programs by contacting BCBSM customer service or by logging in to their online account.
Drug Utilization Review
Drug utilization review (DUR) is a process used by BCBSM to ensure that members are using their medications safely and effectively. DUR involves reviewing a member’s medication history to identify potential issues, such as drug interactions or duplicate therapies.
BCBSM's DUR program is designed to help members avoid potential complications from their medications and improve their health outcomes. The program is available for all BCBSM members and is conducted on a regular basis to ensure that members are receiving the best possible care.
Pharmacy Network Management
BCBSM’s pharmacy network management program is designed to help members access their medications at a network pharmacy. The program includes a range of tools and resources to help members find a pharmacy in the BCBSM network and compare prices for their medications.
BCBSM's pharmacy network management program is available for all BCBSM members and can be accessed by logging in to their online account or by contacting BCBSM customer service. By using this program, members can save money on their prescription medications and improve their health outcomes.
