US-based drugstore chain, Walgreens has introduced a new 'Patient Transition Plan' for Express Scripts members to continue using Walgreens or to make a transition to another community pharmacy.
Express Scripts, a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), will cease its in-network coverage of prescriptions filled at Walgreens after failing to reach a negotiated agreement.
According to company, the new plan will assist Express Scripts members using Walgreens pharmacy during this transition period and seeks to minimize patient disruption and inconvenience.
The plan also includes communications with employers and health plans to help them inform their members of the Express Scripts situation and their choices.
In addition, Walgreens is providing coupons for discounted health and wellness products and gift cards to eligible Express Scripts members.
The drug store said that it will continue to work closely with employers, health plans and mid-tier PBMs that wish to maintain access to the company’s pharmacies and expanding health and wellness services.
Walgreens reported sales of $72bn in fiscal 2011. The company operates 7,811 drugstores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.