Humana extends Medicare prescription drug transition policy for new enrollees

LOUISVILLE, KY - Jan 26, 2006 -   When the Medicare Part D plans took effect Jan. 1, 2006, Humana implemented a transition plan for new prescription drug plan enrollees as they began using their Humana Medicare prescription drug benefit for the first time. Those impacted were enrollees with prescriptions for certain classes of drugs which would normally have required prior authorization or so-called "step therapy" before being approved. The transition policy allowed a 30-day grace period during which the plan member was not subject to those requirements.

Today, Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) has announced that it has taken the initiative to expand its transition policy from 30 days to 60 days for all new enrollees in the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.  In order to make the transition into the new plans as smooth as possible, Humana has extended its transition policy to ensure that its new enrollees understand their new prescription drug benefits and have time to talk with their doctors. 

Within its transition policy, Humana has launched a communication campaign to educate the new member about their medications that may have required prior authorization or step therapy per the formulary requirements.   This outreach campaign will send members letters that will outline choices and options the member should discuss with their physician concerning their pharmaceutical care needs.

"We believe the extension of this transition policy will help our members get access to their medications as they become more familiar with these new benefit plans," said William Fleming, PharmD, vice president of Pharmacy and Clinical Integration for Humana.  "Allowing them more time to transition into the Medicare prescription drug plans also means they will have better information available as they discuss possible alternatives with their physicians."

This transition policy goes into effect immediately for all of Humana's Part D members. As part of the outreach program, Humana will revise the transition process notice currently included on the company's website, www.humana-medicare.com. 

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