Specialty Pharmacy FAQs

What is a specialty medication?
A specialty medication requires close supervision and monitoring for serious and/or complex chronic conditions. These medications are often associated with very high costs and require special storage, handling, or dosing procedures.

What medications does the Kaiser Permanente Washington Specialty Pharmacy service include?
List of Specialty Medications (PDF)

Why do I need to be adherent to my specialty medication?
Adherence is the cornerstone of effective medication therapy. Taking medications as prescribed can optimize clinical outcomes, prevent hospitalizations, and improve quality of life.

What is the cost to enroll?
There is no cost to use this service for Kaiser Permanente Washington members.

Will the Kaiser Permanente Washington Specialty Pharmacy be able to work with patient copay assistance programs?
Yes. We understand the costs of some specialty medications can present a difficult financial challenge for patients. We coordinate with several manufacturers and foundations to help bridge these financial gaps for eligible patients.

What happens when a more cost-effective or generic version of my medication becomes available?
To help keep your health care premiums as low as possible, we encourage using the most cost-effective medicines. We will work with you and your provider to transition your medication therapy when appropriate. Enrollment in copay assistance programs will be facilitated for the most affordable product in the marketplace, if applicable.

Does my doctor know how to work with the Kaiser Permanente Washington Specialty Pharmacy?
Yes. We work closely with your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible care and service. Your doctor may contact our specialty pharmacy team anytime during our hours of operation. Prescriptions can be submitted to us by fax, phone, or electronically.

How do I obtain a refill of my specialty medication each month?
Direct shipping to patients is free, convenient, and quick. Or, patients can choose to pick up their refill at any Kaiser Permanente Washington outpatient pharmacy.

Where can I have my medication delivered, and how long does it take?
Specialty medications usually arrive within 2 business days after completion of order if shipped within Washington state.

How can I pay the cost share for my prescriptions?
Specialty medication cost share must be paid before shipping of the order. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express credit or debit cards. We are not able to accept cash.

What do I do if my insurance changes?
Call us as soon as you know of any changes to avoid delays in getting your medication. We will check your new benefits if possible. If you will no longer be insured by Kaiser Permanente, we are available to transfer your prescription to the appropriate pharmacy.

Do I need to inform the pharmacy if there are changes to my medication therapy?
Yes. Please contact us as soon as any changes are made. If needed, we will contact your doctor for a new prescription.

Who do I talk to if I have questions?
Call the Kaiser Permanente Washington Specialty Pharmacy toll-free at 1-800-483-3945. We are open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday (except for major holidays). For questions regarding your prescription benefits, including copay structures, please contact Kaiser Permanente Member Services at 1-888-901-4636.