My new health insurance through Harvard Pilgrim uses OptumRx as their “pharmacy care services manager.” Can someone explain what these folks do? Are they actually helpful or just going to make things harder?
OptumRx is part of UnitedHealthcare, which is one of the largest health insurance providers out there.
Dayton said:
OptumRx is part of UnitedHealthcare, which is one of the largest health insurance providers out there.
They’ve still got some bugs to work out. Their mail order system could really use improvements. I rely on it because I live pretty far from the nearest pharmacy.
This video sums it up: YouTube Link
Kingsley said:
This video sums it up: YouTube Link
So true!
OptumRx is the worst. Most of their support is outsourced!
Paris said:
OptumRx is the worst. Most of their support is outsourced!
My plan actually requires US-based support for all calls, so I think I’m covered there.
They’re generally helpful! They automatically send out any long-term meds, which saves me trips to the pharmacy. The only issue I had was when they tried to charge me for a brand name instead of the generic, but a quick call got it sorted.
I like OptumRx. They’re great for long-term prescriptions and usually have the best rates for 90-day supplies.
Basically, they handle prescription processing and distribution for your insurance. It’s part of UnitedHealthcare’s strategy to keep everything in-house, so they can process claims, manage pharmacies, and handle billing directly.
@Oakley
They rely heavily on government funding too. Medicare sends them large payments for each enrolled person, which is why these companies lobby so hard to keep control over Medicare options.
I just started with OptumRx. The rep was friendly, and I could hear a rooster crowing in the background, which gave me a laugh. He said it was morning on his side of the world.
Been using OptumRx for two years now, and there’s always something out of stock. Never got much help from them, either. I’m sticking to my local pharmacy from now on.
Most frustrating company I’ve dealt with. Not sure why my insurance chose them!
So is OptumRx an actual pharmacy? Do I have my doctor send prescriptions directly to them?
OptumRx messed up big time on my knee surgery meds. They sent everything but the painkillers, and when I called, they lied about when it would arrive. It took forever to get what I needed.
Their timing isn’t great. My meds always seem to arrive late, even though I’m on auto-refill. Used to be reliable, but now it’s just one headache after another.
If only it were easier to reach someone who could help directly…
Zev said:
If only it were easier to reach someone who could help directly…
FYI, Express Scripts is another similar option for some plans.
OptumRx is run by United Healthcare and handles prescription deliveries too.