The Arkansas Legislature's Employee Benefits Division Oversight Subcommittee meeting on February 25, 2025, spotlighted significant changes to the pharmacy formulary, particularly the exclusion of certain medications. A key highlight was the decision to exclude Trintellix, a medication for depression, due to the availability of more effective alternatives. This change will affect 96 members, who will be placed on a lifetime grandfather status, ensuring they can continue their current prescriptions without interruption.

The committee emphasized that while Trintellix will no longer be available for new patients, those currently using it will have a 90-day period to transition to alternative medications. If they switch to a different drug within that timeframe, they will not be allowed to return to Trintellix. This decision aims to streamline the formulary while ensuring that patients have access to effective treatments.

Senator Hickey raised questions about the grandfathering process, seeking clarity on how it would work for members who might stop taking the medication. The response confirmed that once a member discontinues Trintellix for six months, they would not be able to return to it, reinforcing the need for timely transitions to alternative therapies.

Reverend Graham also expressed concerns about ensuring that alternatives are available for all excluded medications, highlighting the importance of patient care continuity. The committee reassured that all excluded drugs have viable alternatives on the market, aiming to prevent any gaps in treatment for affected individuals.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in the Arkansas Employee Benefits Division's efforts to optimize medication access while managing costs and ensuring effective patient care. The anticipated outcomes include a more efficient formulary and improved health outcomes for members as they transition to alternative treatments.