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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Dear Business Managers & Benefits Administrators:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>ODS will soon begin the process to no longer cover Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) prescriptions that have comparable over-the-counter (OTC) options available for members to purchase. Effective July 1, 2012, this will affect members obtaining prescriptions for a PPI through their ODS pharmacy benefits. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>This week ODS will begin faxing letters to providers who have recently prescribed these medications for an OEBB member, informing the physician of the impending coverage change as well as pointing them to sources of medical evidence warning against long-term use of these medications.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Next week ODS will begin mailing letters (samples attached) to all OEBB members who have recently filled a prescription for a PPI medication, informing them of the change and the OTC alternatives. These letters also include a health warning about long-term use of these types of medications, recommending the member discuss treatment options with their doctor.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you have any questions about this change or the letters, please contact ODS Pharmacy Customer Service at 866-923-0411.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thank you,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='color:navy'>Jackie Cowsill</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;color:navy'>Communications Coordinator</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;color:navy'>Oregon Educators Benefit Board</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>