CareSource Announces Quality-Focused Pharmacy Network

Medicaid members continue to have robust pharmacy network

(Dayton, OH – November 14, 2019)

CareSource today announced its new quality-focused pharmacy network. CareSource’s 2020 Medicaid network includes nearly 2,000 pharmacies across Ohio that continue to participate in the CareSource network. Walgreens will no longer be a part of the CareSource pharmacy network for Medicaid.

The change is the result of CareSource’s continuous evaluation of its provider network to ensure it is offering members excellent access to quality health care. According to CareSource pharmacy data, the Walgreens exit impacts approximately 90,000 members who use the pharmacy for routine maintenance medications or medications used to treat chronic conditions. With this change, members will continue to have access to a nearby pharmacy, in fact, 99% of all Ohio Walgreens locations have a CareSource in-network pharmacy located in close proximity, within no more than 2.2 miles.

“Providing excellent access and quality care to our members is our utmost priority,” said Stephen Ringel, Ohio Market President, CareSource. “We have developed a quality-first network focused on providers who are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our Medicaid members. CareSource is, and will always be, concerned first and foremost about our members and about being good stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

Exceeding Access Standards

CareSource continues to exceed all network access standards set forth by the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM). Among the nearly 2,000 pharmacies available to CareSource members are CVS, Walmart, Rite Aid, Meijer, Kroger, Giant Eagle, Drug Mart, Costco, Marc’s and Sam’s Club pharmacies, as well as more than 580 independent neighborhood pharmacies across Ohio.

The 2020 network was approved by ODM on November 13 and CareSource will be working to ensure members understand their pharmacy options. Additionally, CareSource’s open enrollment information will reflect that Walgreens will not be an option for Medicaid retail pharmacy in 2020.

Information for Consumers

For the 90,000 members impacted by the Walgreens change, CareSource has a specially-trained team ready to assist with the transition and ensure they continue to get the support and care they need. Now that the change has been finalized with ODM, CareSource members can expect to receive a letter highlighting nearby pharmacy options to support them in making a smooth transition.