UAB SPECIALTY PHARMACY SERVICES Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DO I NEED A SPECIALTY PHARMACY ? Specialty medications are complex and costly medications which usually require special storage and handling and may not be readily available at your local pharmacy . These medications may also have side effects that require monitoring by one of our UAB specialty pharmacists who has direct access to your physician . Our goal is to exceed your customer service expectations while providing clinical support to both you and your caregivers .
HOW CAN I CONTACT UAB SPECIALTY PHARMACY SERVICES ?
• Please call us at 205-996-3300 or toll free at 855-292-6330 if you have any questions . – Our business hours are 8:00 am-4:30 pm Monday-Friday – Pharmacists are available 24 / 7 for consultation as well as emergency and clinical situations--such as side effects , medication assistance and complaint resolution--and can be reached at 205-996-3300 or toll-free at 855-292-6330 .
• You can also visit us on the web at uabmedicine . org / specialtypharmacyservices
• Email one of our patient care coordinators : specpharmsvcs @ uabmc . edu
• Ask to speak with a Specialty Pharmacy Services representative during your next clinical visit
• Message your pharmacist through the UAB Patient Portal
WHAT IS A PRIOR AUTHORIZATION ( PA ), AND HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK ? A prior authorization is often required by your insurance company in order to fill your specialty medication . We will complete this authorization on your behalf and will work with your insurance company to explain why the medication is needed . This authorization process can take several business days to be completed .
HOW DO I REFILL MY MEDICATIONS ? Your patient care coordinator will reach out to you via phone about one week before your next refill is due to coordinate shipping or pick up of your prescription . If you run out before we reach you , or if you want to order your refill ahead of time , please call us at 205-996-3300 or toll free 855-292-6330 . Please allow 5 business days for processing and shipping your medications .
HOW MUCH WILL MY MEDICATION COST ? Your copay amount will vary based on your insurance plan . We will tell you the amount once we have processed your order .
WHAT IF I CAN ’ T AFFORD MY MEDICATIONS ? Some patients are eligible for financial assistance through drug companies or grants . Our patient care coordinators will perform a thorough review of the available options and enroll you in the program if you meet the requirements .
WHAT IF MY INSURANCE COMPANY DOESN ’ T COVER THE COST OF MY MEDICATION ? Our staff works directly with your physician and insurance company to obtain coverage for your therapy . If it is denied , your physician will discuss other options with you .
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