PBM Watch: Words from another retiree happy with Express Scripts

Debbie Roush to John Curry, January 24, 2008
Subject: I'm happy with Express Scripts

Hi John, I haven't talked to you in months. Remember all the trouble I had with Caremark denying my medicine? Off and on throughout the year, I would have a glitch with them. The last one was in December. I had my doctor fax a new script on December 20. I waited and waited, called the doctor's office to confirm that it was ordered, and then I called Caremark.

Caremark said they never received the faxed order from my doctor. I told the rep I was so glad that Caremark didn't disappoint me since that was my last time I had to listen to that same old lie. I was totally prepared for "we haven't receive that order from your doctor". (Another disappointment was Gary Russell; he works for us, right? He never did answer the last email I sent to him, nor did he answer your last question. I wonder if he has to worry about health care or meds. One day they will all retire...hmmm.

I called the doctor to explain, gave my Express Scripts info. I called Express Scripts, told them about the order, and gave my billing info. I received a call the next day that they had received it, and later a call that it was being shipped. This rep also told me all the meds that had been transferred and how much the copays would be. She also told me about prior authorizations and how to go online for the form. There was not one word about denying my drugs. I am so happy that we may have a PBM that we can work with.

I read the CORE messages every day so I am keeping abreast of things. I was asked and I did attend the first Health Care Advocates meeting (HB 315) in Columbus in April. I didn't attend any other meetings. I asked the question, "What assurances do retirees/working teachers have that once the bill is passed, the teachers contribute 2.5% and the board pays 2.5% to the fund that the expenses to set this up, hire personnel, give them large salaries, benefits, etc. that this amount will allow the fund to remain solvent for the future retirees. The answer was none... The trust just isn't there anymore. I am so discouraged by the actions of the STRS Board toward Dennis. Another question: When Asbury retires, how about his sick leave...did he bring it with him from his school retirement, accumulate it like we did, and get paid for 25% of those days?

I didn't intend to write so much. Hope to continue reading your and Kathie's informational emails...

Debbie Roush