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NEW: Preferred Pen Needles

Date: 09/29/21

Effective November 15, 2021, Superior HealthPlan’s preferred insulin pen needles will be the BD pen needles. These pen needles will be available to members at no cost. A letter has been sent to Superior HealthPlan Medicaid (STAR, STAR Health, STAR Kids, STAR+PLUS) members notifying them of this new program, with information on how to receive new pen needles.

See below for a list of frequently asked questions:

When does this change to preferred pen needles go into effect?

  • This change will go into effect November 15, 2021.

How do members get new, preferred pen needles?

  • In order for members to receive the preferred pen needles at no cost, providers will need to write a prescription for one of the BD pen needle products listed below. Prescribers will also need to ensure the member takes the prescription to a drug store or pharmacy in Superior’s network. To find a list of in-network pharmacies, please visit Superior’s Find a Provider Tool.

Which BD Pen Needles are preferred?

  • BD Ultra-Fine Micro Pen Needle
  • BD Ultra-Fine Mini Pen Needle
  • BD Ultra-Fine Nano Pen Needle
  • BD Ultra-Fine Original Pen Needle
  • BD Ultra-Fine Short Pen Needles

What if the pharmacy does not have the BD pen needles in stock?

  • If the pharmacy does not have the preferred pen needles in stock, they can either order the pen needles, or redirect the member to another in-network pharmacy.

Are there any exceptions to the using preferred BD pen needles?

  • Non-preferred pen needles will require prior authorization after November 15, 2021.
  • STAR Kids and STAR+PLUS members with Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDD) that are currently in their Continuity of Care (COC) phase, will be able to continue to receive non-preferred pen needles until they complete their individual COC phase.

Where can I see all pen needles available to members?

  • To see all available pen needles, please review the Medicaid formulary and Preferred Drug List (PDL) on the Texas Vendor Drug website.

Who do I contact for questions about this program?

  • If you have any questions, please contact the Superior Pharmacy department, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., at 1-800-218-7453, ext. 22080.