Pharmacy

Second-generation antihistamines bestfor mild allergies; plans curb use of leukotriene modifiers

New pharmacy model dubbed as defined contribution toward the purchase of prescription drugs

As the industry has evolved, the complexity of copay structures has increased,say industry watchers.

Expert analysis of this month's DTR

Unless clearly stated during contracting,the objectives of specialty pharmacy providers and payers might be misaligned

FDA Actions in brief

First-time generic approvals

New formulations

New indications

New molecular entities

Narrow formulary takes advantage of rebates

Research from Ingenix shows that access can vary significantly from plan to plan, thus serving as a competitive advantage

States may establish formularies and require prior authorization

Should you implement a healthcare reimbursement debit card? A few tips will help clear the path.

New medical devices, FDA actions and first-time generics

Even when drug treatment is chosen carefully to fit patient needs, responses may vary

Comprehensive newsletters and Web-based messages keep members up to speed on the best drug values

Plans need to take an actuarial look at member populations to determine their level of interest

This primary issue figures into upcoming elections

Also see this month's Pharmacy Best Practices

New molecular entities and new combinations

PPIs relieve pain and heal peptic ulcers

The pharma and medical technology pipelines are expected to have a bigger impact on trends in 2005.

The growth of healthcare spending slowed in 2003-7.8% compared with 9.3% in 2002-but according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), employers are not impressed.

The most enduring changes are those that come from the inside. Improvements that arise from outside pressure sometimes fade away once that influence is removed, especially when the changes are hard to make.

A recent study separates the ingredients of the double-digit increase in employers' prescription drug costs.

For some, an investigational clinical trial can seem like the opportunity for a miracle; for others, it is an altruistic donation to science that might be used to help others. It also can be a means of receiving treatment for people with chronic conditions who have few resources, or it can be viewed cynically by critics of the pharmaceutical industry.

Consumers who receive guidance from their plans about the pharmacy benefit tend to make wiser choices

Financial affairs between a health plan and federal subcontractors requires continuous review

Legislation expands reimbursement, but concerns about liability, eligibility and privacy might constrain its broad range expansion