Posted by Jane D on December 13, 2001, at 3:37:05
In reply to i hate insurance companies, posted by Katey on December 12, 2001, at 21:31:52
> HMO wont cover my welbutrin without a pre authorization. this means that i couldnt get my prescription because i didnt happen to have $111 on me at the time. have any of you had HMO issues with pre authorization for meds?
Yes. This seems to particularly be a problem with wellbutrin. They want to know that you are using it for depression and not to stop smoking. Each HMO has its own rules about who needs to fill out the forms for preauthorization but sometimes it can be quite easy and fast. You're best bet is to call the HMO and find out what exactly they need and then follow up with the relevant doctor to make sure that the paperwork has been submitted (correctly). If you need the wellbutrin before the preauthorization comes through you have a few options. Check with your doctor about samples (wellbutrin = xyban), Get a prescription for the Immediate release which I think is generic, or fill only part of the prescription and pay only for the pills that you need now.
Good luck.
Now, in a bow to this board, has anyone had experience with the preauthorization requirements for seeing therapists? Is it really as difficult as they say?
Jane
poster:Jane D
thread:15409
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20011207/msgs/15427.html