DIFS Urges Health Insurers to Support Michiganders Impacted by Ongoing ADHD Medication Shortage Media Contact:?Laura Hall, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]? FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 20, 2024? (LANSING, MICH) Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox today urged state-regulated health plans to take steps to support Michigan families impacted by the ongoing national shortage of medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ?Michigan families are grappling with a widespread and ongoing shortage of medications that treat ADHD, and today we are urging health insurers to take steps to assist these families,? said DIFS Director Anita Fox. ?Some insurers have reduced copays or adjusted coverage tiers, and today?s bulletin urges all Michigan health insurers to exercise flexibility to help Michigan families impacted by this shortage, for example by covering alternative medications or lowering out-of-pocket costs for name brand drugs when generic options are unavailable. Additionally, insurers should take steps to ensure that pharmacies and consumers are aware of these options. Michigan families impacted by the shortage should contact their health insurer for assistance in accessing these needed medications.? In a bulletin issued today, the Department urged insurers to exercise flexibility with coverage and cost-sharing requirements for the duration of this shortage. The bulletin applies to fully insured Michigan health insurance plans in the individual, small group, and large group markets, which includes plans sold on the Health Insurance Marketplace. Michiganders with self-funded group health plans offered by some large employers should contact their insurer or employer to understand any accommodations available to assist with this medication shortage. Michiganders impacted by this medication shortage should first contact their insurer for assistance. For concerns that cannot be resolved directly with the health insurer, call DIFS at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or file a complaint online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints. The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS?or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn. ####
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