Skip to main content
CAREFIRST MEMBERS

Changes to Capital Rx mail order and specialty pharmacy services begin July 1

Costco Pharmacy will replace Optum Rx as the in-network provider

Rural mailbox with flag raised to indicate mail inside

Credit: GETTY IMAGES

Faculty and staff currently enrolled in a Johns Hopkins University CareFirst health plan will soon experience a change to the mail-order and specialty pharmacy services provided by Capital Rx. Effective July 1, Costco Pharmacy will replace Optum Rx as the in-network provider of mail order and specialty prescriptions. You do not have to be a Costco member to access its pharmacy to fill your 90-day prescriptions.

Why is this change happening?

Customer feedback about current service was heard by Capital Rx. This change should improve the experience for mail-order and specialty pharmacy customers because Costco Pharmacy is more compatible with its systems.

What should I expect?

If you are using Optum Rx to fill your prescriptions, Capital Rx will contact you in June by mail and phone to guide you through the transition to Costco Pharmacy; to ensure a smooth transition, look for its communications and respond as requested.

How do I transfer my prescriptions?

Most active prescriptions with Optum Rx will be automatically transferred to Costco Pharmacy. But you will need to take action to transfer some prescriptions, including:

  • Expired prescriptions
  • Prescriptions for controlled substances
  • Prescriptions with zero refills remaining
  • New or renewed prescriptions that were not filled
  • Compound prescriptions
  • Prescriptions from a local retail pharmacy

At the end of June, you'll be provided instructions to create your Costco Pharmacy account, add your delivery and payment information, and transfer your prescriptions.

Another option: Johns Hopkins Outpatient Pharmacy

Available as an alternative for mail-order and prescription services, Johns Hopkins Outpatient Pharmacy offers a full inventory of standard, specialty, and over-the-counter medications, as well as the convenience of discharge medication processing. You can fill your 90-day supply maintenance medications through one of its outpatient pharmacies or use its mail-order services. To transfer your prescriptions to JHOP, call its service center at 888-264-0393.

What if I need help?

If you need assistance, reach out to Quantum Health, CareFirst's free health care navigator. Its representatives can answer questions about coverage, locate a pharmacy, or find the lowest-cost options for a drug. They also can reach out to your provider to request a refill or a different formulary option. Contact Quantum Health care coordinators at 844-460-2801, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., or through the Quantum Health member portal.

You also can visit the Benefits & Worklife webpage for FAQ and updates as the July 1 transition approaches.