Learning More About Your STRS Ohio Prescription Coverage
Do you have a question about your STRS Ohio prescription coverage administered by CVS Caremark (CVS)? If so, we’d like to help by sharing answers to a few common questions we’ve received from enrollees. For additional questions or to learn more, please contact SilverScript (Medicare) toll-free at 800-756-6859 or CVS Caremark (non-Medicare) toll-free at 800-756-6841.
You can also log in to your CVS online account for specific information about your coverage. If you don’t have an account, please register for one using the instructions below. Your CVS online account is the best way to manage your prescriptions, locate network pharmacies, and check coverage and costs.
How do I register for a CVS online account?
After you receive your ID cards, visit www.caremark.com and click “Register” in the top right corner of the home page. Then select the option to create an account using your Member ID.
Do I need to have payment information on file for mail service?
Yes. To avoid delays in receiving your mail-service medications, you need to provide CVS with your credit card information for automatic payments. Medications will not be shipped without payment information on file. You can provide your credit card information through your CVS online account.
For security reasons, CVS Customer Care representatives cannot add automatic payment information to your account over the phone. Although they can accept one-time payments if you call, it’s best to have your credit card information on file with CVS to ensure you receive your medications on time when you need them.
How do I provide payment information for mail service through my CVS online account?
Adding your credit card information for mail service is easy and secure.
- Go to www.caremark.com and click “Sign In” in the top right corner of the home page.
- Click “Profile” in the top right corner of your dashboard page.
- Click “Payment methods” in the menu on the left side of the page.
- On the billing information page, click “Credit Card” under Add New Payment Account.*
- Complete the required fields and click “Add Account.”
*If you prefer to have payments automatically withdrawn from your checking account, click “Electronic Check Processing” on the billing information page.
Where can I find more information about mail service?
You can find more information in the Help Center on the CVS website. Topics about mail service include order status and history, ordering prescriptions, and payments and billing. Additional information is also available on cost and coverage, medication use and safety, and web and account support. You may also find the glossary of terminology helpful.
Do I have to use a CVS pharmacy for retail prescriptions?
No. You can fill your prescriptions at any retail pharmacy that participates in the CVS network. CVS offers a broad retail network of chain and independent pharmacies, including Kroger, Costco, Wal-Mart and Walgreens to name a few. CVS pharmacies are also included in the network. To find out if your pharmacy participates in the network, contact SilverScript or CVS Caremark. You can also use your CVS online account to locate network pharmacies in your area.
Can I get a 90-day supply of medication at a retail pharmacy for the same price as mail service?
Yes, but only at select network retail pharmacies. You can obtain a 90-day supply of medication for the same price as mail service at CVS pharmacies, Kroger, Costco, Long’s Drugs and Navarro Discount Pharmacy. Low-Cost Generic Drug Program medications are also included.
Why do some medications cost more under CVS compared to Express Scripts?
CVS determines and uses a different formulary (list of covered drugs) than Express Scripts. Although the formularies are similar, they are not the same. As a result, some medications covered by CVS may be a different tier status than Express Scripts.
If your medication changed to a higher tier (e.g., to a Tier 2 from a Tier 1), you will now pay the Tier 2 copayment, which costs more than Tier 1. You can talk to your doctor to find out if a lower-cost alternative might be right for you. To check the cost of a specific medication, log in to your CVS online account or call SilverScript or CVS Caremark. You can also check the SilverScript Formulary (Medicare) or CVS Caremark Performance Drug List (non-Medicare).