Zero Dollar Co-pay

Many generic versions of brand-name drugs are now

available. They’re less expensive and just as safe and effective as the brand-name drug.

How does this program work? This program is available for certain specific drugs. At our request, Express Scripts—the company chosen to manage our prescription drug benefit—reviewed prescriptions filled by people in our plan. They identified members like you who might save money with a lower-cost generic drug. Express Scripts doesn’t have access to your medical records and can’t determine if a generic drug would be right for you. A letter may have been sent to you encouraging you to talk with your doctor about changing to a less expensive generic. If your doctor approves, your plan will waive (one or more) of your copayments. After that, you’ll continue to benefit because your copayments will be lower.

What are generic drugs?

Even though generics usually have a different name, color and/or shape, a generic alternative has the same chemical makeup and same effect in the body as the

original brand-name drug. Generics, which have been around for a long time, have been rigorously tested, and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved

them as safe and effective. Unlike manufacturers of brand-name drugs, the companies that make generic

drugs don’t spend a lot of money on research and advertising. As a result, their generic drugs cost less than their original brand-name counterparts — and they can

pass the savings on to patients. By changing to a

generic, you save money when you get your prescription filled or refilled. You also pay a lower copayment than for a brand-name drug. Plus, you help PSSU Health and

Welfare Fund afford a prescription-drug benefit for all our members. The Zero Dollar Co-pay program allows you to

switch a prescription to a generic equivalent drug at no cost to you. For a certain number of months, you can get this prescription filled – at no cost - at your participating pharmacy or through Home Delivery from the Express Scripts Pharmacy. Your plan will pay the co-pay. This benefit gives you a chance to try a generic drug – at no cost to you – so you can see generic-drug advantages for yourself.