HLEX Healthextras (MM)

Catalyst Rx, the pharmacy benefit management (PBM) subsidiary of HealthExtras, Inc. (NASDAQ:HLEX), has expanded its Generic Advantage Plan to demonstrate that drugs purchased through mail service are not always least expensive. Many PBM clients incorrectly believe mail service provides the most cost-effective means of obtaining drugs. �In order to grow their own profits, many PBMs won�t disclose to their clients that frequently prescribed generic medications can be purchased at retail pharmacies for 50% to 80% less than the cost at mail service,� said David Blair, Chief Executive Officer of Catalyst Rx. For example, an identical 90-day supply of fluoxetine (generic Prozac�) costs $76 through mail service and as little as $12 at a retail pharmacy. Likewise, an identical 90-day supply of lovastatin (generic Mevacor�) costs $123 through mail service and as little as $61 at a retail location. �Thousands of retail pharmacies across the country offer low-priced drugs which are often substantially less expensive than if acquired through mail service. We provide full transparency to our clients and members so they can make smart purchase decisions,� Blair said. Catalyst Rx has expanded its Generic Advantage Plan to include new prescription drug pricing look-up tools and educational programs that route members to the lowest-priced drugs. These tools empower members with comparative drug pricing information on retail and mail service costs. Price comparisons are calculated based on actual pharmacy rates and member plan design. Additional educational programs increase member awareness of over-the-counter (OTC) products. The plan enables members to maximize savings and arms them with the knowledge that not all drug pricing is created equal. About Catalyst Rx Catalyst Rx is a full service pharmacy benefit management (PBM) company providing effective solutions to manage pharmacy benefit plans for self-insured employers, including state and local governments, third party administrators, managed care organizations and individuals. Founded in 1994 and developed around strong, innovative principles in the management of prescription drug programs, Catalyst Rx currently manages more than 5 million members located in all 50 states. The Company�s continued commitment to innovation, efficiency and superior customer service has provided the most care- and cost-effective pharmacy solutions to its clients and their members. This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that we have identified that might materially affect our results are discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 under "Item 1.A Risk Factors." Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and uncertainties that may affect our business.