MedicaidPrior AuthMedium impact
MedWatch Requirement for Brand Medically Necessary Prescriptions
Maryland Medicaid·MD · Pharmacy·Pharmacy
Effective date
Oct 15, 2004
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Effective October 15, 2004, prescribers must complete and submit an FDA MedWatch form to the Maryland Pharmacy Program before Maryland Medicaid will reimburse at brand rates for brand medically necessary prescriptions. This applies when patients experience adverse reactions, allergic reactions, or therapeutic failure with generic medications.
Action Required
Before October 15, 2004: Prescribers must complete FDA MedWatch forms and fax copies to Maryland Pharmacy Program at 410-333-5398 for any brand medically necessary prescriptions. Write 'MEDWATCH FORM SUBMITTED' and 'BRAND MEDICALLY NECESSARY' on prescriptions. Pharmacists must submit claims with DAW indicator '1' and call 410-767-1755 for preauthorization if claims reject. Claims without proper MedWatch documentation will be denied brand-rate reimbursement.