90-day prescription law takes effect

A new state law that goes into effect today requires insurers to reimburse patients for a 90-day supply of medications that they take throughout the year.

Lawmakers passed House Bill 158 because some insurers require those with chronic conditions to renew their prescription every month. That is not only more expensive to the pharmacy, it was sometimes difficult for patients to remember to refill the prescription, and pick up the drugs, each month, supporters of the bill said.

The law only applies to those who have been taking the drug for a year and is not subject to the health plans’ prior authorization or pre-certification requirements. Controlled substances also are exempted from the law.

The bill sailed through the House and passed on a unanimous roll call vote of the Senate on May 10. It was signed by Governor Lynch on June 11. – BOB SANDERS