State employee diabetes benefits

by Peter Nebergall

On January 1 1995, employees of the State of Tennessee participating in the
"Healthsource Tennessee" HMO became eligible for several new diabetes
benefits. As a pharmacy benefit, "Healthsource Tennessee" will now cover
glucometer test strips prescribed by a participating Healthsource physician.
LifeScan One-Touch strips will require only a $5 copayment (per unit
dispensed), with all other test strips having a $15 copayment. Because theirs
is the "preferred" test strip, LifeScan, maker of One-Touch test strips and
glucometers, will offer their One-Touch II glucometer in trade (at no charge)
for any other glucometer.
Insulin syringes and needles are also covered under this pharmacy benefit. All
brands will require a $5 copayment per one-month supply.
Healthsource Tennessee, Inc. suggests program participants with any questions
contact the Pharmacy Services Department's Customer Service line:
1-800-634-1454. This writer hopes participants in other insurance programs
will tell their insurers about Healthsource Tennessee's diabetes benefits, and
invite them to offer similar values.n
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