WellPoint launches preferred pharmacy network for Medicare

INDIANAPOLIS — Health insurer WellPoint said Tuesday that most of its affiliated Medicare drug plans and medical plans with drug coverage will participate in a preferred pharmacy network that includes Rite Aid, Kroger and Walmart pharmacies.

Together, WellPoint said, members had access to more than 11,000 locations around the country. The preferred pharmacy network is part of all of WellPoint's affiliated Part D standalone prescription drug plans and most of its Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans.

"Launching this preferred pharmacy network not only saves members on their drug purchases, which helps them improve their adherence and their health, but also allows WellPoint's affiliates to offer standalone PDP plans with more attractive premiums than in years past," WellPoint EVP and president for Medicare programs Leeba Lessin said.

Members can use any of the company's retail network pharmacies, but they will receive savings of $5-$8 per co-pay on most drugs, depending on plan type and drug tier for using preferred network pharmacies. Additionally, all standalone PDP plans and a few MAPD plans will feature preferred generics for a $1 co-payment.

Representatives of WellPoint affiliates will staff booths at high-volume locations of the stores during Medicare's Annual Election Period, which is between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7.

Chains in the network include Kroger, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, City Market, Fry's, Smith's, Dillons, Ralphs, QFC, Baker's, Scott's, Owen's, Pay Less, Gerbes and JayC, as well as Walmart, Walmart Neighborhood Market and Sam's Club.