State Health Plan Continues Emphasis on Tobacco Cessation
Nicotine replacement therapy patch copay waived for members who
receive tobacco cessation support
RALEIGH, N.C. – As of April 10, 2007, State Health Plan members who receive tobacco cessation support can have the $5 copay waived for over-the-counter (OTC) generic nicotine replacement patches.
“Studies have shown that counseling greatly increases the likelihood that a smoker will be able to successfully stop smoking,” said Dr. Nancy Henley, medical director for the State Health Plan. “This program offers continued support to members who want to improve their health through smoking cessation.”
Members may receive counseling from their health care provider or may take advantage of free tobacco cessation support services available through the NC Quitline. Copay waivers for the patches will be active at a participating network pharmacy approximately two business days after a member’s certification form has been faxed by the health care provider or the NC Quitline. Benefits for OTC generic nicotine patches require a prescription and are valid for a 10-week course of therapy. An individual trying to quit smoking will typically need three to four boxes of patches over the course of a 10-week treatment.
On January 1, 2007, the State Health Plan added nicotine replacement therapy patches as a covered pharmacy benefit. Members received the patches free through March 31, 2007, through another pharmacy program − the generic copay waiver program.
“The continued availability of OTC generic nicotine replacement patches at no cost is especially beneficial to state employees who will be affected by planned limitations on smoking in North Carolina community colleges, the General Assembly, UNC Health Care System facilities and state correctional institutions,” said Dr. Henley. These restrictions are scheduled to begin July 2007.
“The State Health Plan strives to offer continuous support and new, affordable options to its members,” said Executive Administrator George C. Stokes. “Members benefit from this program through affordable smoking cessation support, and the State Health Plan expects long-term savings in tobacco-related medical expenditures.”
Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of death and illness in the United States. Statistics indicate that in North Carolina, 37 percent of all preventable deaths are attributed to tobacco. Each smoker represents approximately $1, 623 in excess medical expenditures. By making generic nicotine replacement therapy patches free with counseling, the State Health Plan anticipates improved member health and significant long-term savings for the plan and for taxpayers.
For more information call pharmacy customer service at 1-800-336-5933. Contact the NC Quitline by calling
1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
Click here for the Tobacco Cessation Counseling Prescriber Confirmation Form to request the copay waiver for generic over-the-counter patches.
