Changes to Health Flexible Spending Account
Letter to AlaskaCare Employee members
November 2010
Dear AlaskaCare member:
According to our records, you are currently enrolled in a Health Flexible Spending Account (HFSA) which provides reimbursement of health services that are not reimbursed under your AlaskaCare Employee Health Plan or other health coverage. Recent federal healthcare legislation has changed the documentation requirements for reimbursement of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and medicines from a HFSA.
Effective January 1, 2011, OTC drugs and medicines may be reimbursed from your HFSA only if the claim is accompanied by a written prescription from a healthcare provider who is licensed to prescribe drugs. If you currently receive reimbursement from your HFSA for OTC drugs or medicines and intend to do so after December 31, 2010, please ensure that you have a current prescription or contact your healthcare provider to obtain one.
Certain items are exempt from this requirement including:
- Insulin
- Items that are not drugs or medicines
- Medical equipment such as crutches
- Medical supplies such as bandages
- Diagnostic devices such as blood sugar test kits
Claims for covered OTC drugs and medicines purchased by December 31, 2010 do not require a prescription. Please note that certain items such as homeopathic medicines or vitamins require a certificate of need or similar documentation whether they are purchased before or after January 1, 2011. A list of these items, and those covered under the OTC provision, is included on the HFSA OTC reimbursement form. You may also contact Wells Fargo Insurance Services at (877) 517-6370 for more information.
If you have any questions, please call our office toll-free at (800) 821-2251, in Juneau at 465-4460 or by email at doa.drb.benefits@alaska.gov.