Highmark Health is offering generic medications for multiple sclerosis and certain cancers, along with biosimilar drugs for some autoimmune conditions, at lower costs.
In September, members started getting access to generic forms of dimethyl fumarate and dalfampridine, droxidopa, and capecitabine, according to a Dec. 8 news release from the insurer. Discounts range from 25% to 75% for commercial employer-based, ACA and Medicare members, in collaboration with select specialty pharmacies.
Highmark is a founding member of CivicaScript, a nonprofit organization offering generic medications. Highmark’s members, group customers and plan saved more than $8 million since the cheaper version of abiraterone acetate first released in 2023. On average, members save $90 per month in out-of-pocket costs for the medication. These savings reach more than 300 Highmark members in Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware and West Virginia, the release said.
Biosimilars, designed for patients with complex conditions demanding specialized medication management, have also been made available. Adalimumab (Humira) and ustekinumab (Stelara) treat autoimmune conditions.
Corey DeLuca, PharmD, Highmark’s vice president of clinical and specialty pharmacy services, said the insurer is taking “a biosimilar-first approach” across employer-based and individual prescription drug plans.
“The biosimilar-first approach preferring select biosimilars to Humira and Stelara in 2026, coupled with comprehensive patient and provider support strategies, is projected to significantly lower the cost of these therapies for Highmark members and group customers in this high-impact medication category,” she said.
Highmark is working with Evio, which it helped found, and Free Market Health to optimize therapies and advance these efforts, according to the release.
