Express Scripts trims workers' compensation drug spending by use of generics

Express Scripts slashed its growth in spending for prescription drugs by workers' compensation plans from 11.4% in 2006 to 6% in 2007. The St. Louis pharmacy benefit manager attributed the spending slowdown to a record-setting, fourth-quarter generic utilization rate of 69% by workers' compensation plans. How has Express Scripts managed to increase generic use to such a great extent? By contacting physicians who write dispense-as-written prescriptions assiduously, by promoting generic drugs through step therapy programs, and other measures, the PBM said. Express Scripts added that thanks to greater use of on-line claim submissions by pharmacies, use of the retail network by injured workers reached 90% in the fourth quarter. These findings are covered in Express Scripts' 2007 Workers' Compensation Drug Trend Report.

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