Earlier this year in its annual "call letter" OPM told carriers to continue emphasizing generic drugs and other lower-cost alternatives to brand-name prescription drugs such as therapeutic equivalents or alternatives. OPM also: discouraged the use of certain specialty drugs that are disproportionately expensive; indicated that it is disappointed with the participation rate in another long-running cost control effort, employee wellness programs, particularly those targeting obesity; and encouraged carriers to test offering a sub-option for Medicare-eligible annuitants in which part of the premium would "pass through" and be used to pay Medicare Part B premiums.
