Wellmark unveils richest formulary with tiered drug pricing and mail order benefits

During the recent Humboldt County Board of Supervisors meeting, a significant discussion centered around the county's employee health insurance plan, specifically regarding the prescription drug coverage provided by Wellmark. The plan features one of Wellmark's most comprehensive formularies, ensuring that all drugs deemed coverable by Wellmark are accessible to county employees.

Key highlights from the discussion included the tiered pricing structure for prescription medications. Employees can obtain Tier 1 drugs at no cost, as these are fully covered by Wellmark. For Tier 2 drugs, employees will incur a co-payment of $15 at the time of service. The costs increase for higher tiers, with Tier 3 and Tier 4 drugs requiring co-payments of $30 and $85, respectively. Additionally, the plan offers a mail order program, allowing employees to receive a three-month supply of medications for the price of two co-payments, effectively providing one month of medication free.

This comprehensive coverage aims to alleviate the financial burden on employees when accessing necessary medications, reflecting the county's commitment to supporting the health and well-being of its workforce. The Board's discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that employees have access to affordable healthcare options, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive community.

As the county moves forward, these health benefits will play a vital role in attracting and retaining employees, ultimately contributing to the overall stability and growth of Humboldt County.