The message below is from CalPERS Stakeholder Relations.
As a result of the pharmacy benefits manager (PBM) transition from OptumRx to CVS Caremark effective January 1, 2026, Optum Rx must mail disenrollment letters to Medicare members as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS also requires the language that must be used in the letters.
These letters were recently sent to approximately 160,000 CalPERS Medicare members enrolled in PERS Platinum Medicare Supplement, PERS Gold Medicare Supplement, or Anthem Blue Cross Medicare Preferred. Copies of the letters are attached here and here.
These letters have created some concern from CalPERS Medicare members as it indicates that their prescription drug coverage will be ending effective Dec. 31, 2025.
However, CalPERS is transitioning everyone’s prescriptions to CVS Caremark automatically and there are no actions needed.
We have updated the CalPERS and CVS websites to explain the situation.
Pharmacy Benefits: Optum Rx replaced by CVS Caremark | CalPERS
CalPERS Open Enrollment
CVS Caremark is mailing letters this week to reassure members their prescriptions are transitioning, and no loss of coverage is happening.
Again, NO action from members is required. Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit coverage will automatically begin with SilverScript on Jan. 1, 2026.