Prior Authorization (PA) is a process used to clinically and operationally evaluate the patients' medication regimen. This evaluation is based on disease state, current utilization of medications, medications used previously, and the pharmacy benefit design coverage for each patient.

Certain medications require Prior Authorization (PA) because there are clinically effective alternatives (Formulary Medications) that may be less costly, or have fewer side effects than the prescribed medication.

If your physician prescribes a medication NOT on the formulary, the medication will not be filled until the physician completes a non-formulary/prior authorization request form. This form is located at www.uniteddrugs.com. To assist your physician in selecting appropriate therapies for you and your family, we suggest you take your formulary with you to all physician visits.

If your doctor prescribes a non-formulary drug, it may remain a covered benefit for you, depending upon the drug options available. What is required is either a call or a completed Prior Authorization/Non Formulary Form from your doctor explaining that it is necessary for you to remain on the drug. Please have your doctor call or fax all correspondence to:

Phone: (800) 364-8865 Option 3
Fax: (602) 678-0941

Normally when the pharmacist processes a non-formulary prescription, a message instructs the pharmacist that the medication is non-formulary and requires prior authorization. The pharmacist fills out the Prior Authorization/Non Formulary form and then faxes the form to the physician. Pharmacies have been instructed to contact the United Drugs help desk to access a Prior Authorization Form.

Absolutely. The Prior Authorization form is used for all non-formulary requests. You can download the form yourself and ask your physician to fill out the form and fax it to United Drugs. This will expedite the process. You can also give the form to the pharmacist with as much information filled out by you ahead of time. This saves your pharmacist time in completing the form. You only have to fill out the form once for each non-formulary prescription. Normally, medications are approved for one year.