All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Voluntary nationwide recall: Eye drops (Rugby)
UPMC Health Plan·Ophthalmology, Optometry, Pharmacy·Pharmacy
Effective date
Oct 31, 2023
We identified it
Aug 7, 2026
Summary
The Harvard Drug Group LLC has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of certain lots of Rugby brand eye drops due to bacterial contamination that could cause eye infections resulting in partial vision loss or blindness. As of October 31, 2023, three adverse events have been reported. The billing team must ensure affected patients are identified and that claims for recalled product lots are handled appropriately per payer guidance.
Action Required
By November 20, 2023: Billing and clinical teams must identify any patients who received Rugby brand eye drops from the recalled lots (reference the full recall document for specific lot numbers). Coordinate with providers to: (1) notify affected patients per payer requirements, (2) document the recall in patient records, (3) review any claims submitted for the recalled product and contact payers for guidance on claim adjustment or denial handling. Front desk staff should flag any incoming calls from patients regarding the recall. Do not bill for replacement eye drops without explicit payer authorization, as coverage for recalled products may require special handling or prior authorization.