Zyprexa

"In some cases it appears that CMS is just not serious about its own transition policies," Muszynski said.

"Another serious concern we are having is that the exceptions and appeals process is one sided and in disarray." In many parts of the country, states have stepped in to assume the costs of prescription drugs for dual eligibles who have not been able to receive necessary medications in a timely fashion (Psychiatric News, February 3).

That appears to have provided at least temporary relief for what Massachusetts psychiatrist Andrea Stone, M.D., had described as "pandemonium" in the first weeks of January.

But she told Psychiatric News that problems persist, and some are likely to recur since states are providing only temporary coverage.

"When Mass Health stepped in [to assume costs of medications for beneficiaries unable to receive them] there was an immediate improvement in the overall situation," she said.

"At this point most people are getting their medications through their Medicare plans, but sporadic problems exist.

A patient was told by her insurer that all of her medications would require prior authorization.

In fact, none did.

Another patient cannot get her ID number, which means she can't get her meds.

She was on ...

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