Compounded prescriptions and insurance

[Guest guest]

Hello, Y'all:

Well, I finally got hired on and have until January 24th to pick an

insurance plan. I planned on getting Blue Cross/Blue Shield (now

called Regence Blue Shield), but now I'm not so sure. I have been on

the phone with these folks, and it don't look good. Armour

is " covered, " but it's " Non-formulary, " so I'd pay more.

(Fortunately, it's CHEAP.)

Then I asked about compounded prescriptions. This little chickadee

on the phone did NOT like me asking that question. She said that it

has to be " pre-approved. " I asked, " what are the criteria for

approval? " She says, " your doctor or pharmacist has to fax over a

copy. " I said, " That's not what I asked you. " Then I get, " well, if

you'll just be patient, I'll explain it to you. " Seems that it has

to be " approved by the FDA, " and it has to be covered by Medco, the

administrator of the prescription plan.

I called Medco. I don't like this. They couldn't tell me ANYTHING.

So. . .I've seen comments from some folks who have had their

compounded thyroid and other hormones paid for by insurance. Am I

wrong?

I've got a list from Women's International Pharmacy to start calling,

and have looked at the database here. Any advice would be greatly

appreciated, this is becoming so not worth my time!

Gracias.

Amy