Which drugs are covered under Tier 3?

Tier 3 typically encompasses many common brand-name drugs as well as some higher-cost generics in a prescription drug formulary. This tier is characterized by the inclusion of medications that are more expensive than those found in lower tiers, such as Tier 1 and Tier 2, which usually consist of preferred generics and some lower-cost brands.

The rationale behind placing these medications in Tier 3 is often due to their higher cost and the need for cost management in health plans. Patients often face higher out-of-pocket costs for Tier 3 medications, which reflects their positioning as more specialized or less commonly used treatments compared to medications in the lower tiers. This tier may support chronic disease management, specialty conditions, or specific health needs not met by lower-tier options.

Other options do not accurately reflect the contents or purpose of Tier 3 in typical formulary structures. Therefore, the choice indicating that Tier 3 includes many common brand-name drugs and some higher-cost generics accurately captures the essence of this classification.