age and prescriptions

[topazstone]

What is the name of your state? Pennsylvania. I just recently changed to my employers prescription plan.( My employer is Eckerd.) I have been taking Celebrex for the last year or more. When I went to get the prescription filled under the new plan, it was denied because according to my new plan I am supposed to be 65 or older before they will approve it!! I am 40. Isn't this age discrimination? I have been diagnosed with arthritis and celebrex is the only medication that helps. I have xrays and MRI's to prove it. How can they tell me I must be 65 or older to get the medication? Thanks

 

[lkc15507]

Yuck! You work for Eckerd, a pharmacy benefit administrator, and you want to fight with them about a prescription? You go girl! Talk about an uphill battle. But, first question is: who is the insurer? Does Eckerd insure you or have they purchased another plan? Do they offer you a reasonable alternative to the Celebrex? Have you submitted a written appeal of the decision? Have you done your research regarding any alternative that they might offer vs. the Celebrex? Just some questions. I'll help if I can. LKC15507

 

[cbg]

"I am 40. Isn't this age discrimination? "

Nope, 'fraid not. A recent US Supreme Court case ruled that is IS legal and does NOT constitute age discrimination to offer a benefit to older workers and not to younger ones.

(General Dynamics Land Systems, Inc. v. Cline, U.S. Sup. Ct., No. 02-1080, 2004)