Does pet insurance cover Apoquel? Apoquel isn’t really a cheap medication, and for dogs that require long-term treatment, the cost can swiftly add up. This raises an important question for pet owners: does pet insurance cover Apoquel?
Pet allergies, skin irritations, and chronic itching are common issues that cause discomfort and stress for both pets and their owners. For many pet parents, this medication can be a game changer in managing their dog’s long-term skin conditions.
When you fully understand whether your pet insurance will cover the cost of Apoquel, it can help you manage veterinary expenses efficiently. Like most prescription medications, the coverage of Apoquel depends on the specifics of your insurance plan, the nature of your pet’s condition, and when the condition was diagnosed in relation to the start of the policy.
What Is Apoquel and Why Do Pets Need It?
Apoquel (oclacitinib) is a fast-acting oral medication prescribed by veterinarians to relieve itching and inflammation caused by allergic or atopic dermatitis in dogs.
Just like a miracle drug, Apoquel works at the source of the problem by inhibiting the function of cytokines, which are responsible for causing inflammation and itching in dogs with skin allergies.
Additionally, many pets suffering from seasonal or chronic skin allergies may be prescribed Apoquel as part of a long-term treatment plan. Now, while the medication is highly effective, especially in managing persistent itching, the costs can grow to be huge.
Depending on the dosage and size of the dog. A month’s supply of Apoquel can cost anywhere from $60 to $120 or more.
Because of the recurring nature of these conditions, pet owners naturally want to know if insurance can help offset the cost.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Apoquel?
This largely depends on the type of plan you have and when you enrolled your pet. Most comprehensive pet insurance plans include prescription medications under their accident and illness policies.
However, there are important considerations, such as whether the condition being treated is deemed a pre-existing issue.
Insurance providers typically classify medications like Apoquel under illness coverage, not wellness or accident plans. Therefore, only accident and illness policies are likely to reimburse for this medication.
Factors That Determine The Coverage You Get
Here are some of the factors that determine the coverage you get from providers:
- Type of Plan: It is only accident and illness plans that are typically cover prescription medications like Apoquel.
- Prescription Requirement: Coverage often applies only if the medication is prescribed as part of a treatment plan.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: If your pet showed signs of skin allergies or itching before the policy began, then the Apoquel medication may not be covered.
- Reimbursement Model: You usually pay for the medication upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement.
How To Ensure Your Pet Insurance Covers Apoquel
If you want to make sure your dog’s Apoquel prescription will be covered, there are a few steps you can take. The key is to ensure you choose the right policy and understand where the insurer stands on chronic conditions and medications.
To start off, you can begin by carefully reviewing the terms and conditions of any pet insurance plan before enrolling. Look out for specific mentions of prescription medication coverage and clarify whether there are any exclusions for allergy treatments or long-term conditions.
Additionally, It is also advisable to talk directly with the insurance provider to confirm their policy on Apoquel.
Here are some ways to ensure coverage:
- Choose a plan that comes with prescription coverage. Not all plans include this by default so ensure it’s part of your selected policy.
- Enroll early. The earlier you get pet insurance, the less likely your pet’s condition will be considered pre-existing.
- Documentation of when the condition began and what treatments were prescribed is crucial when filing claims.
- Understand the Deductible and limits as well. Some plans have annual or per-condition caps that may affect your reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apoquel Covered Under All Pet Insurance Plans?
No, it isn’t. Only accident and illness plans that include prescription medication coverage typically reimburse for Apoquel. So, the Wellness or accident-only plans do not cover this medication.
Will Pet Insurance Cover Apoquel If My Dog Already Had Allergies Before I Got The Plan?
If your dog had signs of allergies or itching before the policy began, the condition is likely considered pre-existing, and Apoquel will not be covered.
Are There Alternative Medications Covered By Pet Insurance If Apoquel Isn’t?
Some insurers may cover alternatives like Cytopoint injections or antihistamines if they are prescribed by a vet. However, the coverage will vary by policy and provider.