Medicaid Update: Upon Pharmacist Approval 90-Day Maintenance Medication of Non-Dangerous Controlled Substances Permitted During COVID-19 Emergency

From: Medicaid

BACKGROUND: The CDC considers COVID-19, otherwise known as the
coronavirus, to be a serious public health concern based on current information.
Although the health risk is low at this time, the World Health Organization, the CDC and
the New Jersey Department of Health are closely monitoring the progress of the
disease and issuing warnings as necessary to ensure the health and safety of the
general public.

ACTION:

Division of Aging Services (DoAS) and the Division of HIV/AIDS, TB & STD Services,
AIDS Drug Distribution Program (ADDP) shall ensure access to prescribed medications
by making accommodations in the State’s Point-of-Sale (POS) claims processing
system. The following will be allowed if the pharmacist deems it appropriate when
exercising their professional judgement:

The Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS)

• DMAHS/DoAS/ADDP will allow the dispensing of a ninety (90) days’ supply of
maintenance medications. This guidance does not apply to controlled dangerous
substances. Please continue to comply with current New Jersey Board of Pharmacy
regulations regarding the dispensing of controlled substances unless otherwise advised
by the Board.

• Early prescription refills shall be permitted.The DMAHS/DoAS/ADDP shall 
retrospectively review claims paid during the State of Emergency and recover
any inappropriately paid claims.

If you have any questions concerning this Medicaid Alert, please contact DXC
Technology Provider Services at 1-800-776-6334.