ProviderPulse

Multi-Source Brand Use Decreases in 2010

Billing/Administration

August 2011
In 2010, Pinnacol noted a decrease in the prescribing of multi-source brand drugs to injured workers. This comes after a significant increase in the use of multi-source brand drugs in 2009. A multi-source brand drug is one that has both a brand-name version and a generic version available in the marketplace. From 2009 to 2010, the use of multi-source brand drugs decreased 0.1 percent. These same drugs account for 2.6 percent of Pinnacol’s overall total prescription drug costs.

The use of multi-source medications increases the overall cost associated with an injured worker’s medical care, and such costs can eventually be passed on to the policyholder in the form of premium increases. When determining what drug to prescribe to a patient, it’s important to remember the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DOWC) rule regarding prescription drugs. Per DOWC Rule 18-6(O) (3)&(5), “All prescriptions shall be filled with the bio-equivalent generic drug unless the physician indicates, ‘Dispense as Written’ (DAW) on the prescription.”

If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact Pinnacol’s medical operations team at 303.361.4945.