The New York State Department of Civil Service has awarded UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of New York, a contract to administer pharmacy benefits under the Empire Plan, the health plan for state employees and other participating public agencies in New York.

The agreement represents coverage for more than one million members and will provide access to prescription medications, a high level of service and enhanced health care information.

Under UnitedHealthcare’s administration of pharmacy benefits, Empire Plan members will have access to a broad range of affordable pharmaceutical products and support to help them make optimal health care choices.

Steve Burdick, UnitedHealthcare senior vice president, who manages the company’s overall relationship with the Empire Plan, said: UnitedHealthcare has been supporting New York State employees’ health care needs through the Empire Plan since 1995. Building upon that relationship, we will now also offer customized solutions for the unique requirements of the New York State pharmacy contract and an innovative, holistic approach to improving access to quality, affordable care.