BCBSM removes compounded hormones from commercial drug coverage

Effective Nov. 1, 2013, we will no longer cover compounded hormone products for members who have Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan commercial (non-Medicare) prescription drug coverage. Compounded drugs may expose members to risks from products that have not been tested for safety or effectiveness by the Food and Drug Administration.

This change is part of our ongoing efforts to promote cost-effective and high-quality prescription drug therapy.

BCBSM commercial members will no longer have compounded hormone products covered under their drug benefit plan. These products include compounds that contain any of the following ingredients:

• Estradiol
• Estrone
• Hydroxyprogesterone caproate
• Methyltestosterone
• Progesterone
• Testosterone

This does not apply to members who have Blue Care Network plans, BCBSM Michigan Education Special Services Association plans, BCBSM Medicare Advantage plans or Medicare Part D plans. We will notify affected members of these changes and encourage them to contact their physicians to discuss other treatment options, including commercially available, FDA-approved products on our drug lists.

If you have any questions about our pharmacy programs, call the Pharmacy Services Clinical help desk at
1-800-437-3803 and select Option one.