Wellcare Expands Medicare Drug Coverage, Adds Amazon as Preferred Pharmacy

Beginning in January 2023, Wellcare will expand its range of Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) offerings. Wellcare serves almost 1.5 million Medicare Advantage plans across 36 states. In 2023, Wellcare will offer 48 redesigned plans.

Its pharmacy offerings will be expanded to include 102 plans nationwide and will include $0 copays for COVID-19 vaccines and testing. Additionally, Amazon is now a preferred retail pharmacy.

All plans will include a $0 tier 1 benefit when filled at preferred pharmacies, including Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, and most grocers. Part D Senior Savings Model (SSM), which reduces member spending on insulin, will be offered on Value Script and Value Plus products. A new formulary design will be offered on the Value Script and Value Plus plans; it will contain medications commonly used to treat diabetes and will cost only $11 per 30-day supply.

Richard Fisher

“As Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow across the country, Wellcare is proud to offer more plans, enhanced benefits, and greater choices to help our members and those eligible for Medicare live better, healthier lives,” Rich Fisher, chief executive officer of Medicare for Centene, Wellcare’s parent company, said in a press release.

The Medicare Advantage plans will expand Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) offerings. It will also offer “giveback” plans that reduce some or all of the Part B premium available and provide low-income subsidy plans to those who qualify. Wellcare Patriot plans are also available for Veteran members.

Annual enrollment for Medicare begins Oct. 15, 2022, and continues through Dec. 7, 2022.