CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Formulary update scheduled for October 1, 2018
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI·Physician / Behavioral Health
Effective date
Oct 1, 2018
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI formulary update effective October 1, 2018 affects prescription drug coverage for commercial plans. Changes include brand drugs losing patent protection requiring generic equivalents, select drug exclusions, and tier changes for some generic drugs based on cost increases.
Action Required
By October 1, 2018: Billing and clinical staff must review updated BCBSRI formulary changes for all commercial patients. Update prescription protocols to use generic equivalents for brand drugs that lost patent protection. Verify coverage for affected medications before prescribing. Inform patients of potential tier changes affecting copays.