By now most of you have received a letter from Caremark, your prescription
benefit administrator, dated August 21, 2006. Please read the content carefully so that you will understand the prescription benefit program as well as other
resources offered by Caremark.
Mandatory Mail Service
For long-term or maintenance prescriptions you must use mail service after filing your prescription three times at a participating pharmacy. To get started
using Caremark Mail Service for an existing prescription, simply call toll-free at 1-888-216-5022 to access FastStart SM mail program. Otherwise, you
can have your doctor write a script for a 90-day supply with 3 refills (if applicable)
and send it with an order form to Caremark. Mail order forms are available at Caremark.com.
It is important to note that the mail service co-pays will apply regardless of the
day supply that is submitted; therefore it is important for you to verify that all
prescriptions being sent to Caremark Mail Service are written for a full 90-day supply.
Generic vs Brand
Whenever clinically appropriate, Caremark, with prescribed approval, substitutes
generic medications for the often costly branded medications. Ask your doctor if
a generic equivalent or generic alternative medication is available to treat your
condition. Be aware sometimes generic medications have different fillers or additives that may cause slightly different effects so be sure to check with your
doctor or pharmacist. Remember, not all medicines are available in a generic form and only available in brand name form.
Web site: www.caremark.com
The Caremark Web site offers a wealth of information including the following:
Ordering prescription refills
Three Tier Drug Design
Find out which medications are covered under your plan
Examples of drug costs; generic, preferred brands and non-preferred brands
Express delivery program for oral and injectable medicines
Find out where nearby participating pharmacies are located
Check prescriptions for dangerous drug interactions
Search drug and medical libraries
For additional information about your Caremark prescription benefit, log on to www.caremark.com or call toll-free at 1-800-898-5698. If you are having any
problems with this program, please inform your local union officers and we
will address your concerns.
