Medicare AdvantagePrior AuthMedium impact
Olumiant (baricitinib) (New)
Humana·Rheumatology, Dermatology·Medicare Advantage
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 24, 2026
Summary
New prior authorization policy for Olumiant (baricitinib) effective January 1, 2026 for Medicare Advantage plans. Requires prior auth for rheumatoid arthritis (after failing two specific medications) and severe alopecia areata (50%+ scalp hair loss for 6+ months).
Action Required
Before January 1, 2026: Billing team must update prior authorization system to require approval for all Olumiant (baricitinib) prescriptions for Medicare Advantage patients. Update provider notification system to alert prescribers of new requirements for rheumatoid arthritis (must document failure/contraindication to two specific medications: adalimumab products, Enbrel, or Rinvoq) and alopecia areata (must document 50%+ scalp hair loss via SALT score for 6+ months and previous treatment failure with corticosteroids or cyclosporine).