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 clinical questions— 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.
CAN I STILL GET ACCESS TO MY MEDICATIONS IF I DO NOT HAVE PRESCRIPTION INSURANCE? Some pharmaceutical companies offer a medication assistance program. If available, we will research it and help you enroll.
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