The opioid epidemic remains a critical public health issue, with tens of thousands of overdose deaths occurring each year. Timely access to opioid reversal agents, such as Narcan or naloxone, can mean the difference between life and death in an opioid overdose situation. That’s why CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield and CareFirst BlueChoice, Inc. (collectively, “CareFirst”) is proud to share that beginning January 1, 2025, opioid overdose reversal agents will be available to eligible members1 at no cost.
To receive the $0 benefit, members must get the medication through a pharmacy. They may have to show their CareFirst Member ID card to receive the benefit, but no copay will be collected.
Members may obtain two cartons (four nasal sprays or four pre-filled syringes) per month at the $0 benefit. Those who require more will need prior authorization but may request up to four cartons per month in certain situations, such as having been prescribed a particular type of opioid or if they live far from emergency medical care.
Financial barriers shouldn’t prevent access to these life-saving medications. This added benefit speaks to our mission to ensure that healthcare is affordable, equitable and accessible to all. It puts opioid overdose reversal agents in the hands of not only individuals at risk of overdose but also their families, friends and community members and empowers bystanders to respond effectively.
1 CareFirst self-funded plans must opt-in for members to receive the benefit. If members have questions about whether this benefit applies to them, they should contact the Member Service number on the back of their Member ID card.
CareFirst provided nearly $8 million in funding to support behavioral health in our communities, with special focus on programs that address the root causes that lead to a higher prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders. The funding also supported efforts to expand the behavioral health workforce. Learn more about the impact of our behavioral health grants