Early refills now allowed in New Jersey

Trenton, NJ-The state of New Jersey has enacted legislation that requires insurance companies and health plans to provide coverage for the early refill of prescription eye drops at 70% of the predicted days of use.

This important patient safety legislation would ensure continuity of therapy for patients with eye and sight problems by allowing the uninterrupted administration of necessary eye medication for patients who are in need of early refills. The New Jersey Academy of Ophthalmology (NJAO), spearheaded by President Cecily Lesko MD, was at the forefront of this legislation, advocating on behalf of New Jersey patients.

“Many diseases of the eye are treated with chronic therapy through use of medications,” said Dr. Lesko. “Glaucoma is the most common. Left untreated, it is one of the leading causes of blindness. With this effort and outcome, proper treatment remains available to more patients who will benefit personally and directly through the treasured gift of sight.”

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