Medicare Part B drugs may include Step Therapy beginning January 1, 2019

CMS updated its guidance to allow Medicare Advantage plans the option of implementing step therapy for Part B drugs as part of a patient-centered care coordination program beginning January 1, 2019.  The goal is to lower drug prices while maintaining access to covered services and drugs for beneficiaries. BCBSGa will implement step therapy edits to promote clinically appropriate and cost effective drug options for our members. A patient-centered care coordination program will be created to ensure member access to necessary drugs, provide medication reviews and reconciliations, educate members regarding their medications, encourage medication adherence, and provide incentives to members who complete care coordination programs.