The Minnesota Senior Federation has expanded its well-known pharmacy benefit program by incorporating generic drugs into one bundle of services for its members (click here to become a member). The new program will feature a one-stop-shop approach for member to take care of both prescription and generic drug needs.

"In the past, our members had to make two and three phones calls to take care of all of their pharmacy needs," noted Eileen Iverson, MnSF programs vice president. "Now all we have to do is make one call and the coordination is done all at once."

Consolidation of the program will create efficiencies and saving will be passed onto the member. Our current providers, Extended Care Pharmacy and Canadian Pharmacy Service, administer the current program independently. Both companies spend separate resources on call center, data management, customer services and dispensing. Consolidating these services will create the efficiency, although both companies will still be involved in providing these services.

In addition to the one-stop-shop approach, the new program also reestablishes a much-needed generic option for members through our new partner, SmartChoice. A notice was sent last month to all former MedSave customer/MnSF members about the closing of the generic provider.

As always, the Minnesota Senior Federation remains committed to the needs of seniors. We provide you value in three key ways:

1. We have done the homework for you so you know you can trust your prescription drug program.

2. We secure some of the best pricing available on the market.

3. You get special discounts that are not available to the general public.

Overall, current members will see a greater level of service. This program is constantly being updated. If you have questions, call the MnSF Health Plan Information Center, 651/783-5045 or 866/783-5045.