Independence has made the prevention and treatment of opioid abuse a priority. In 2017, for example, we became one of the first insurers in the country to limit initial low-dose opioid prescriptions to no more than five days. This led to a decrease in the number of members using opioids, as well as prescriptions written for opioids.

Continuing its wide-ranging efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, Independence has announced that effective March 1, 2018, cost-sharing is being removed, after deductibles are met, for injectable and nasal spray formulations of naloxone and Narcan^®, a brand of naloxone. This will apply to our fully insured commercial members with Independence pharmacy benefits. In addition, this will become effective April 1, 2018, for our self-funded customers who chose to participate. Members who have already met their deductible would have $0 cost-sharing at the drug store when they get their prescription. This will remain in effect throughout 2018.

Note: This does not apply to Evizo^®, a naloxone auto-injection system.

The cost-sharing change applies only to members who are making a purchase for themselves or for someone who has coverage through Independence.

Education: Tools and resources for providers and members

Independence has informative tools and resources available for providers and members as part of our ongoing commitment to opioid abuse prevention and treatment.

• An Opioid Awareness section is available on the home page of our Provider News Center that provides links to tools and resources to help providers manage patients who are prescribed opioid medications.
• Members can find information on opioid and substance abuse materials, including useful information from the CDC, on the IBX member resources page.