Provider Notice issued 06/14/12

Elimination of the Illinois Cares Rx Program

As a result of budget reductions, effective June 30, 2012, the Illinois Cares Rx (ICRx) program has been eliminated and all members will lose this state subsidy beginning July 1, 2012.

If a beneficiary has Medicare, his or her copayments will be those established by their Medicare Part D plan, unless they have Low Income Subsidy (LIS) assistance from the federal government.

If a beneficiary does not have Medicare, he or she will be responsible for paying the full cost of their medicines, unless they have discount programs, private health insurance, or get help through the Veterans Administration (V.A.).

HFS will have no authority to pay any ICRx claim beyond the end of the Fiscal Year 2012 lapse period. As a result, any claim with a date of service prior to July 1, 2012, for an ICRx member who does not have Medicare, or for a Medicare Part D excluded drug for an ICRx member with Medicare, must be billed to HFS prior to August 1, 2012, to ensure consideration for payment.

For assistance comparing drug plan options in your area or enrolling in a different plan, contact one of the Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) Outreach sites (pdf) located throughout the state. Share this with individuals who would benefit from additional Medicare counseling, such as comparing drug plan options or enrolling in a different plan. If they are in a Medicare Advantage plan that also covers their doctor and hospital care, they may wish to contact the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) at 1-800-548-9034 for additional assistance.

If you have questions, please contact the Bureau of Pharmacy Services at 1-877-782-5565, option 7.

Theresa A. Eagleson, Administrator

Division of Medical Programs