High-Cost Drug Discount Program for ASO and Cost Plus groups 

Starting with May 2026 renewals, ASO and Cost Plus large employer groups will have the opportunity to opt-in to the High-Cost Drug Discount Program (HCDDP).

HCDDP for small group fully insured and small group level-funded ASO, which was announced earlier this year, launches January 1, 2026.

HCDDP connects members to manufacturer copay assistance programs that reduce their out-of-pocket costs for specialty medications. By helping reduce costs, the program may enable members to experience immediate financial benefits, while you and your clients see the value of innovative solutions.

How HCDDP works

HCDDP maximizes manufacturer copay dollars to help minimize plan cost and help keep member cost low at the pharmacy.

• Members are identified based on prescription claims for eligible drugs. More than 150 specialty medications are included.
• Eligible members are contacted by phone and mail with program details and enrollment support.

Once enrolled, members experience no disruption in prescriptions and may pay the same or less, with some copay cards covering most or all the cost depending on the manufacturer.

HCDDP benefits

Members

• Helps reduce cost share for specialty medications included in the program
• HCDDP Care Team that provides proactive support and assistance throughout a member’s treatment
• Simple enrollment process – The HCDDP Care Team facilitates the enrollment process directly with members and provides customized communications
• Pharmacy agnostic – The program will be available across all network pharmacies
• No additional cost for members

Employers

• Drives group-level savings that are passed directly to the group which helps to reduce overall pharmacy spend
• Captures available dollars from drug manufacturers so groups can reduce spend on high-cost specialty medications and help offset the growing financial burden
• Supports employee access to medications by using manufacturer copay assistance to create accessible pricing and help employees maintain treatment
• No additional upfront costs because a fee is only charged if savings are achieved
• Guides eligible employees through the simplified enrollment process directly with the HCDDP Care Team

If you have questions, please contact your Blue KC representative.