I have some very exciting news for our members who participate in the Empire Plan.
I would like introduce you to a new, voluntary program called the Half Tablet Program (HTP). It is part of your Empire Plan Prescription Drug Program benefits.
Under the HTP, you get the same medication and dosage for half the cost. How does it work? It’s simple, really.
The HTP offers the opportunity for you to reduce your prescription medication co-payments by using double-strength tablets and splitting them in half.
Members are urged to check with their physicians to see if it is appropriate to take part in the program. If your doctor agrees that the HTP is for you, your doctor can phone in or fax a new prescription to your preferred retail or mail-order pharmacy.
Your doctor will write your prescription for twice the dosage (strength) and half the quantity of your current prescription. The dosing instructions will advise you to take a half tablet at your regularly scheduled time. This will automatically enable you to participate in the HTP, and you will only be responsible for half the usual co-pay amount.
These medications are available under the HTP:
- Antihypertensives and ACE inhibitors: Aceon (2 mg, 4 mg), moexipril (7.5 mg) and trandolapril (1 mg, 2 mg).
- Antihypertensives, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): Atacand (4, 8 & 16 mg); Avapro (75 mg, 150 mg); Benicar (20 mg); Cozaar (25 mg, 50 mg); and Diovan (40, 80 & 160 mg).
- Antidepressants: Lexapro (5 mg, 10 mg); Pexeva (10 mg, 20 mg); and sertraline (25 mg, 50 mg).
- Lipid-lowering medications: Crestor (5, 10 & 20 mg); Lipitor (10, 20 & 40 mg); pravastatin sodium (10 mg, 20 mg); and simvastatin (5, 10, 20 & 40 mg).
The list of medications is subject to change without notice.
Please note that the HTP is voluntary.
If you have additional questions about the Half Tablet Program, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions Web page at www.halftablet.com.
Meanwhile, the Empire Plan is offering a free tablet splitter to members who join the Half Tablet Program. To get your tablet splitter, simply call (877) 471-1860 or request one at www.halftablet.com. You will be asked to provide your participation number.
Splitting tablets using a tablet splitter isn’t difficult. Please follow the directions provided with your free tablet splitter or with one you purchase on your own.
If you have any questions regarding the Half Tablet Program, please feel free to contact a Benefit Trust Fund representative at (800) 887-3863. Information is also available on the UUP Web site, at www.uupinfo.org.
— Doreen Bango, Benefits Manager