1
|
Abejew AA, Wubetu GY, Fenta TG. A six years trend analysis of systemic antibiotic consumption in Northwest Ethiopia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290391. [PMID: 38295126 PMCID: PMC10830007 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Consumption of antibiotics, a major global threat to public health, is perhaps the key driver of antibiotic resistance. Monitoring antibiotic consumption is crucial to tackling antimicrobial resistance. This study assessed antibiotic consumption trends during the last six years in the Bahir Dar branch of the Ethiopian pharmaceutical supply agency (EPSA), Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022. METHODS Retrospective data were collected in August 2022 based on antibiotic distribution data from the Bahir Dar Brach of EPSA from July 2016 to June 2022. Data were analyzed according to the Anatomic Therapeutic Classification (ATC) developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). We measured antibiotic consumption using a defined daily dose per 1000 inhabitants per day (DIDs) based on the Agency's catchment population. Descriptive statistics and trend analyses were conducted. RESULTS About 30.34 DIDs of antibiotics were consumed during the six years. The consumption of antibiotics decreased by 87.4%, from 6.9 DIDs in 2016/17 to 0.9 DIDs in 2021/22. Based on the WHO AWaRe classification, 23.39 DIDs (77.1%) of the consumed antibiotics were from the Access category. Consumption of Access category antibiotics was decreased by 72.7% (from 5 to 0.5 DIDs) but Watch antibiotics decreased by 54.3% (from 1.8 to 0.4 DIDs). Oral antibiotics accounted for 29.19 DIDs (96.2%) of all consumed systemic antibiotics. The average cost expenditure per DDD for all antibiotics was 54.1 birr/DDD (0.4-482.3 birr/DDD). Only seven antibiotics accounted for DU90% and the cost expenditure per DDD for the DU90% antibiotics ranged from 0.4/DDD for Doxycycline to 232.8 birr/DDD for Piperacillin/tazobactam. Overall, during the last six years, the most commonly used antibiotic was Amoxicillin (10.1 DIDs), followed by Doxycycline (5.3 DIDs) and Ciprofloxacin (3.4 DIDs). CONCLUSION In this study, we found that antibiotic usage was low and continuously declining over time. Minimizing unnecessary antibiotic usage is one possible approach to reduced AMR. However, a shortage of access to important medicines can compromise the quality of treatment and patient outcomes. A prospective study is needed to evaluate the balance of patient outcomes and reduce AMR by optimizing the community consumption of systemic antibiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asrat Agalu Abejew
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Teferi Gedif Fenta
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zin CS, Ab Rahman NS, Mohamed Nazar NI, Kurdi A, Godman B. Trends in the Cost of Medicines, Consultation Fees and Clinic Visits in Malaysia's Private Primary Healthcare System: Employer Health Insurance Coverage. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:1683-1697. [PMID: 37350986 PMCID: PMC10284298 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s403589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine trends in the cost of medicines, consultation fees and clinic visits among the employees covered by the employer health insurance in Malaysia's private primary healthcare system in Malaysia. Designs Retrospective cross-sectional study. Setting PMCare claims database from January 2016 to August 2019. Participants A total of 83,556 outpatient clinic visits involving 10,150 IIUM employees of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) to private general practitioners (GPs). During the study period, IIUM adopts the incentive structure of capping coverage at Ringgit Malaysia (RM) 45/outpatient visit (USD 10.58) to cover for consultation fees and medicine costs. Main Outcome Measures The monthly percentage change in the number of clinic visits, medicine costs, consultation fees and total costs between January 2016 and August 2019. A simple linear regression using Stata v15.1 was also performed to measure the association between the characteristics of the prescribed medicines and medicine charges. Results The number of clinic visits per patient increased by 17% from January 2016 to August 2019, with consultation fees increasing by 113.9% and total costs by 7.9% per clinic visit per patient. Conversely, the cost of medicines and the number of medicines prescribed per clinic visit per patient decreased by 39.7% and 6.3%, respectively. Conclusion Within the incentive structure of capping the total amount of coverage per clinic visit, medicine costs were reduced by decreasing the number of medicines prescribed, to offset the increased consultation fees. This may create perverse incentives that affect medicine use with negative consequences for the health system and health insurers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Che Suraya Zin
- Big Data Research Group, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Norny Syafinaz Ab Rahman
- Big Data Research Group, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Nor Ilyani Mohamed Nazar
- Big Data Research Group, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region Government, Iraq
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zielińska M, Hermanowski T. Sources of Information on Medicinal Products Among Physicians - A Survey Conducted Among Primary Care Physicians in Poland. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:801845. [PMID: 35069213 PMCID: PMC8770910 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.801845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Primary care physicians need to have access to up-to-date knowledge in various fields of medicine and high-quality information sources, but little is known about the use and credibility of sources of information on medicinal products among Polish doctors. The main goal of this study was to analyze the sources of information on medicinal products among primary care physicians in Poland. Methods: A survey was conducted among 316 primary care physicians in Poland. The following information was collected: demographic data of participants, type and frequency of using data sources on medicinal products, barriers to access credible information, assessment of the credibility of the sources used, impact of a given source and other factors on prescription decisions. Results: The most frequently mentioned sources of information were medical representatives (79%), medical journals (78%) and congresses, conventions, conferences, and training (76%). The greatest difficulty in finding the latest information about medicinal products was the lack of time. The surveyed doctors considered clinical guidelines to be the most credible source of information, and this source also had the greatest impact on the choice of prescribed medicinal products. Conclusion: The study showed that clinicians consider clinical guidelines as the most credible source of information with the greatest impact on prescribing medicinal products. However, it is not the source most often mentioned by doctors for obtaining knowledge about medicinal products. There is a need to develop strategies and tools to provide physicians with credible sources of information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Bioanalysis and Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Hermanowski
- Department of Bioanalysis and Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Matlala M, Gous AGS, Meyer JC, Godman B. Formulary Management Activities and Practice Implications Among Public Sector Hospital Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committees in a South African Province. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1267. [PMID: 32973508 PMCID: PMC7466677 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The World Health Organization identified Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committees (PTCs) at district and hospital levels as one of the pivotal models to promote rational use of medicines (RUM). This is endorsed by the Government in South Africa. Formulary development and management is one of the main functions of PTCs. This study aimed to describe the formulary management activities among PTCs in public hospitals in Gauteng Province, South Africa, following initiatives to promote RUM in South Africa. Methods Qualitative, nonparticipatory, observational study, observing 26 PTC meetings. Data were coded and categorized using NVivo9® qualitative data analysis software. Themes and sub-themes were developed. The themes and sub-themes on formulary management are the principal focus of this paper. Results More than half of the observed PTCs reviewed their formulary lists. There was variation in the review process among institutions providing different levels of care. Various aspects were considered for formulary management especially requests for medicines to be added. These included cost considerations (mainly focusing on acquisition costs), evidence-based evaluation of clinical trials, patient safety, clinical experience and changes in the National Essential Medicines List (NEML). The tertiary PTCs mostly dealt with applications for new non-EML medicines, while PTCs in the other hospitals mainly requested removal or addition of EML medicines to the list. Conclusion This is the first study from Gauteng Province, South Africa, reporting on how decisions are actually taken to include or exclude medicines onto formularies within public sector hospitals providing different levels of care. Various approaches are adopted at different levels of care when adding to- or removing medicines from the formulary lists. Future programs should strengthen PTCs in specialized aspects of formulary management. A more structured approach to formulary review at the local PTC level should be encouraged in line with the national approach when reviewing possible additions to the NEML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moliehi Matlala
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-rankuwa, South Africa
| | - Andries G S Gous
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-rankuwa, South Africa
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-rankuwa, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-rankuwa, South Africa.,Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Soleymani F, Godman B, Yarimanesh P, Kebriaeezadeh A. Prescribing patterns of physicians working in both the direct and indirect treatment sectors in Iran; findings and implications. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jphs.12322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Soleymani
- Pharmaceutical Management and Economic Research Center Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Management Faculty of Pharmacy Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Brian Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology Karolinska Institute Stockholm Sweden
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences University of Strathclyde Glasgow UK
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Ga‐Rankuwa, Pretoria South Africa
- Health Economics Centre University of Liverpool Management School Liverpool UK
| | - Pegah Yarimanesh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch Islamic Azad University Tehran Tehran Province Iran
| | - Abbas Kebriaeezadeh
- Pharmaceutical Management and Economic Research Center Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Leporowski A, Godman B, Kurdi A, MacBride-Stewart S, Ryan M, Hurding S, Do Nascimento RCRM, Bennie M, Morton A. Ongoing activities to optimize the quality and efficiency of lipid-lowering agents in the Scottish national health service: influence and implications. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2018; 18:655-666. [DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2018.1501558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Axel Leporowski
- Department of Management Science, Strathclyde Business School, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedicial Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, South Africa
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedicial Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Sean MacBride-Stewart
- Pharmacy Prescribing Support Unit, National Health Service Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Margaret Ryan
- Pharmacy Prescribing Support Unit, National Health Service Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Renata CRM Do Nascimento
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedicial Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Post-Graduate Program of Medicines and Pharmaceutical Assistance, School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- SUS Collaborating Centre for Technology Assessment and Excellence in Health (CCATES), School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marion Bennie
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedicial Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Alec Morton
- Department of Management Science, Strathclyde Business School, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang C, Li N, Wang H, Yin H, Zhao Y. Study on essential drug use status and its influencing factors among cerebral infarction inpatients in county level hospitals of Anhui Province, China. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193513. [PMID: 29621245 PMCID: PMC5886397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Drug costs is one of the main components of hospitalization expenditure for cerebral infarction inpatients. In China, the National Essential Medicine System (NEMS) was created to relieve the heavy drug-cost burden for patients. The objective of this study was to investigate essential drug-use status and its influencing factors among cerebral infarction inpatients in county-level hospitals of Anhui province, China. METHODS Three county-level hospitals were selected through a multi-stage cluster random sampling method. The hospitalization cost data of cerebral infarction inpatients in the three hospitals were extracted from the Anhui provincial information platform of the New Rural Cooperative Insurance System (NCMS), and whether the proportion of essential drug cost in the total drug cost reached the median value of 33.05% which was set as the evaluation index for essential drug-use status. Questionnaires for hospitals and physicians were designed and given to them to assess influencing factors. RESULTS We retrieved the cost data of 2,189 inpatients from the NCMS platform and investigated 51 corresponding physicians in total. The drug costs accounted for 52.6% of the total hospitalization cost, and essential drug costs alone accounted for 37.0% of the total drug costs. The essential drug-cost proportion was high among physicians with a higher recognition degree on NEMS, older age, lower final academic degree, longer work experience and lower professional title. Married physicians and those with tight organizational affiliation also prescribed more essential drugs. CONCLUSIONS Increasing the proportion of essential drugs was an effective way to reduce the disease burden for cerebral infarction patients. Perfecting the NEMS, increasing government investment, reinforcing education and propaganda, and formulating relevant incentive and restrictive mechanisms were all effective ways to promote and increase the number of essential drug prescriptions written by physicians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cunhui Wang
- Social Science and Health Management School, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Niannian Li
- Department of Research Administration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Social Science and Health Management School, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Deam’s Office, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyan Yin
- Social Science and Health Management School, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunwu Zhao
- Department of Human Resources, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Meyer JC, Schellack N, Stokes J, Lancaster R, Zeeman H, Defty D, Godman B, Steel G. Ongoing Initiatives to Improve the Quality and Efficiency of Medicine Use within the Public Healthcare System in South Africa; A Preliminary Study. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:751. [PMID: 29163151 PMCID: PMC5677783 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: South Africa has an appreciable burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases as well as high maternal, neonatal, and child morbidity. In recent years there have been significant strides with improving the public health system, and addressing current inequalities, with the right to health a constitutional provision in South Africa. Initiatives include the introduction of National Health Insurance, programmes to enhance access to medicines for patients with chronic diseases, as well as activities to improve care in hospitals, including improving pharmacovigilance. Consequently, the objective of this paper is to review ongoing initiatives within the public healthcare sector in South Africa and their influence to provide future direction. Method: Principally a structured review of current and planned activities. Results: There have been a number of major activities and initiatives surrounding the availability and access to medicines in the public system in recent years in South Africa. This includes a National Surveillance Centre and an innovative early warning system for the supply of medicines as well as the development of a National Health Care Pricing Authority and initiatives to improve contracting. There have also been developments to improve the supply chain including instigating Medicine Procurement Units in the provinces and enhancing forecasting capabilities. Access to medicines is improving though the instigation of stable chronic disease management initiatives to increase the number of external pick-up points for medicines. There are also ongoing programmes to enhance adherence to medicines as well as enhance adherence to the Standard Treatment Guidelines and the Essential Medicines List with their increasing availability. In addition, there is a movement to enhance the role of health technology assessment in future decision making. Hospital initiatives include increased focus on reducing antimicrobial resistance through instigating stewardship programmes as well as improving adverse drug reaction reporting and associated activities. Conclusion: Overall, there are an appreciable number of ongoing activities within the public healthcare system in South Africa attempting to ensure and sustain universal healthcare. It is too early to assess their impact, which will be the subject of future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna C Meyer
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, South Africa
| | - Natalie Schellack
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, South Africa
| | - Jacobus Stokes
- Contract Management, South Africa Directorate: Affordable Medicines, Sector Wide Procurement, National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ruth Lancaster
- Essential Drugs Programme, South Africa Directorate: Affordable Medicines, Sector Wide Procurement, National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Douglas Defty
- Mediclinic Southern Africa, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Health Economics Centre, Management School, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Steel
- Sector Wide Procurement, National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Eriksen J, Ovesjö ML, Vallin M, Juhasz-Haverinen M, Andersén-Karlsson E, Ateva K, Gustafsson LL, Jirlow M, Bastholm-Rahmner P. Primary care physicians report high trust in and usefulness of the Stockholm drug and therapeutic committee's list of recommended essential medicines (the 'Wise List'). Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2017; 74:131-138. [PMID: 29063149 PMCID: PMC5748393 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-017-2354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Inappropriate use of medicines causes increased morbidity, mortality, adverse drug reactions, therapeutic failures and drug resistance as well as wastes valuable resources. Evidence-based cost-effective treatment recommendations of essential medicines are a way of avoiding these. We assessed primary care prescribers’ knowledge about and perceptions of an essential medicines formulary, as well as the reasons for adhering to the recommendations. Methods We conducted a web based questionnaire survey targeting all physicians working in the primary healthcare of the Stockholm healthcare region (2.3 million inhabitants), regarding the knowledge of, attitudes to and usefulness of the essential medicines formulary of the Stockholm Drug and Therapeutics Committee, the so-called Wise List. Results Of the 1862 physicians reached by our e-mail invitations, 526 (28%) participated in the survey. All but one respondent knew of the formulary, and 72% used it at least once a week when prescribing. The main reason for using the formulary was evidence-based prescribing; 97% trusted the guidelines, and almost all (98%) found the content easy to understand. At the same time, many prescribers thought that the annual changes of some recommendations were too frequent, and some felt that a national formulary would increase its trustworthiness. Conclusions We found that the essential medicines formulary was widely used and trusted by the prescribers. The high uptake of the treatment recommendations could be due to the Stockholm Drug and Therapeutics Committee’s transparent process for developing recommendations involving respected experts and clinicians using strict criteria for handling potential conflicts of interest, feedback to prescribers, continuous medical education and minor financial incentives. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00228-017-2354-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaran Eriksen
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Marie-Louise Ovesjö
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Quality and Development, Södersjukhuset, 118 83, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martina Vallin
- Public Healthcare Services Committee, Box 17533, 118 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Eva Andersén-Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, 118 83, Stockholm, Sweden.,Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Ateva
- Stockholm Drug and Therapeutics Committee, Public Healthcare Services Committee, Box 17533, 118 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars L Gustafsson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malena Jirlow
- Public Healthcare Services Committee, Box 17533, 118 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pia Bastholm-Rahmner
- Medical Management Centre, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics (LIME), Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Eriksen J, Gustafsson LL, Ateva K, Bastholm-Rahmner P, Ovesjö ML, Jirlow M, Juhasz-Haverinen M, Lärfars G, Malmström RE, Wettermark B, Andersén-Karlsson E. High adherence to the 'Wise List' treatment recommendations in Stockholm: a 15-year retrospective review of a multifaceted approach promoting rational use of medicines. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e014345. [PMID: 28465306 PMCID: PMC5775463 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-014345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To present the 'Wise List' (a formulary of essential medicines for primary and specialised care in Stockholm Healthcare Region) and assess adherence to the recommendations over a 15-year period. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of all prescription data in the Stockholm Healthcare Region between 2000 and 2015 in relation to the Wise List recommendations during the same time period. SETTING All outpatient care in the Stockholm Healthcare Region. PARTICIPANTS All prescribers in the Stockholm Healthcare Region. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The number of core and complementary substances included in the Wise List, the adherence to recommendations by Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) 1st level using defined daily doses (DDDs) adjusted to the DDD for 2015, adherence to recommendations over time measured by dispensed prescriptions yearly between 2002 and 2015. RESULTS The number of recommended core substances was stable (175-212). Overall adherence to the recommendations for core medicines for all prescribers increased from 75% to 84% (2000 to 2015). The adherence to recommendations in primary care for core medicines increased from 80% to 90% (2005 to 2015) with decreasing range in practice variation (32% to 13%). Hospital prescriber adherence to core medicine recommendations was stable but increased for the combination core and complementary medicines from 77% to 88% (2007 to 2015). Adherence varied between the 4 therapeutic areas studied. CONCLUSIONS High and increasing adherence to the Wise List recommendations was seen for all prescriber categories. The transparent process for developing recommendations involving respected experts and clinicians using strict criteria for handling potential conflicts of interests, feedback to prescribers, continuous medical education and financial incentives are possible contributing factors. High-quality evidence-based recommendations to prescribers, such as the Wise List, disseminated through a multifaceted approach, will become increasingly important and should be developed further to include recommendations and introduction protocols for new expensive medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaran Eriksen
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars L Gustafsson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Ateva
- Stockholm Drug and Therapeutics Committee, Public Healthcare Services Committee, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pia Bastholm-Rahmner
- Medical Management Centre, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics (LIME), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie-Louise Ovesjö
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Quality and Development, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malena Jirlow
- Public Healthcare Services Committee, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Gerd Lärfars
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rickard E Malmström
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Wettermark
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Andersén-Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fadare JO, Adeoti AO, Desalu OO, Enwere OO, Makusidi AM, Ogunleye O, Sunmonu TA, Truter I, Akunne OO, Godman B. The prescribing of generic medicines in Nigeria: knowledge, perceptions and attitudes of physicians. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2015; 16:639-650. [PMID: 26567041 DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2016.1120673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Generic medicines have the same efficacy and safety as originators at lower prices; however, there are concerns with their utilization in Nigeria. Objective was to evaluate physicians' understanding and perception of generics. A questionnaire was administered among physicians working in tertiary healthcare facilities in four geo-political regions of Nigeria. Questionnaire response was 74.3% (191/257) among mainly males (85.9%). The mean knowledge score regarding generics was 5.3 (maximum of 9) with 36.6%, 36.1% and 27.2% having poor, average and good knowledge respectively. Cross-tabulation showed statistical significance (p = 0.047) with the duration of practice but not with position, subspecialty or sex. The majority of respondents did not believe that generic medicines are of lower quality than branded medicines. Therapeutic failure was a major concern in 82.7%, potentially discouraging the prescribing of generics, and a majority (63.9%) did not support generic substitution by pharmacists. Knowledge gaps were identified especially with the perception of generics, which need to be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph O Fadare
- a Department of Pharmacology , Ekiti State University , Ado-Ekiti , Nigeria
| | - Adekunle O Adeoti
- b Department of Medicine , Ekiti State University , Ado-Ekiti , Nigeria
| | - Olufemi O Desalu
- c Department of Medicine , University of Ilorin , Ilorin , Nigeria
| | - Okezie O Enwere
- d Department of Medicine , Imo State University , Orlu , Imo State , Nigeria
| | - Aliyu M Makusidi
- e Department of Medicine , Usman Danfodiyo University , Sokoto , Nigeria
| | - Olayinka Ogunleye
- f Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Department of Medicine , Lagos State University Teaching Hospital , Ikeja , Lagos , Nigeria.,g Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics , Lagos State University College of Medicine , Ikeja , Lagos , Nigeria
| | | | - Ilse Truter
- i Drug Utilization Research Unit (DURU), Department of Pharmacy , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University , Port Elizabeth 6031 , South Africa
| | - Onyinye O Akunne
- j Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics , University of Ibadan, Ibadan , Nigeria
| | - Brian Godman
- k Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet , Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , SE-141 86 , Stockholm , Sweden.,l Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Strathclyde , Glasgow , UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Godman B, Malmström RE, Diogene E, Gray A, Jayathissa S, Timoney A, Acurcio F, Alkan A, Brzezinska A, Bucsics A, Campbell SM, Czeczot J, de Bruyn W, Eriksson I, Yusof FAM, Finlayson AE, Fürst J, Garuoliene K, Guerra Júnior A, Gulbinovič J, Jan S, Joppi R, Kalaba M, Magnisson E, McCullagh L, Miikkulainen K, Ofierska-Sujkowska G, Pedersen HB, Selke G, Sermet C, Spillane S, Supian A, Truter I, Vlahović-Palčevski V, Vien LE, Vural EH, Wale J, Władysiuk M, Zeng W, Gustafsson LL. Are new models needed to optimize the utilization of new medicines to sustain healthcare systems? Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2015; 8:77-94. [PMID: 25487078 DOI: 10.1586/17512433.2015.990380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Medicines have made an appreciable contribution to improving health. However, even high-income countries are struggling to fund new premium-priced medicines. This will grow necessitating the development of new models to optimize their use. The objective is to review case histories among health authorities to improve the utilization and expenditure on new medicines. Subsequently, use these to develop exemplar models and outline their implications. A number of issues and challenges were identified from the case histories. These included the low number of new medicines seen as innovative alongside increasing requested prices for their reimbursement, especially for oncology, orphan diseases, diabetes and HCV. Proposed models center on the three pillars of pre-, peri- and post-launch including critical drug evaluation, as well as multi-criteria models for valuing medicines for orphan diseases alongside potentially capping pharmaceutical expenditure. In conclusion, the proposed models involving all key stakeholder groups are critical for the sustainability of healthcare systems or enhancing universal access. The models should help stimulate debate as well as restore trust between key stakeholder groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zeng W, Zhen J, Feng M, Campbell SM, Finlayson AE, Godman B. Analysis of the influence of recent reforms in China: cardiovascular and cerebrovascular medicines as a case history to provide future direction. J Comp Eff Res 2015; 3:371-86. [PMID: 25275234 DOI: 10.2217/cer.14.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmaceutical expenditure has grown by 16% per annum in China, enhanced by incentives for physicians and hospitals. Hospital pharmacies dispense 80% of medicines in China, accounting for 46% of total hospital expenditure. Principal measures to moderate drug expenditure growth include pricing initiatives as limited demand-side measures. OBJECTIVE Assess current utilization and expenditure including traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) between 2006 and 2012. METHODS Uncontrolled retrospective study of medicines to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in one of the largest hospitals in southwest China. RESULTS Utilization increased 3.3-fold for cerebrovascular medicines, greatest for TCMs, with expenditure increasing 4.85-fold. Low prices for generics were seen, similar to Europe. However, there was variable utilization of generics at 29-31% of total product volumes in recent years. There continued to be irrationality in prescribing with high use of TCMs, and the utilization of different medicines dropping significantly once they achieved low prices. CONCLUSION Prices still have an appreciable impact on utilization in China. Potential measures similar to those implemented among western European countries could improve prescribing rationality and conserve resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Zeng
- School of Management, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Chongqing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Riaz H, Godman B, Hussain S, Malik F, Mahmood S, Shami A, Bashir S. Prescribing of bisphosphonates and antibiotics in Pakistan: challenges and opportunities for the future. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/jphs.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Humayun Riaz
- Faculty of Pharmacy; Sargodha University; Sargodha Pakistan
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Division of Clinical Pharmacology; Karolinska Institute; Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge; Stockholm Sweden
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; Strathclyde University; Glasgow UK
| | - Shahzad Hussain
- Drugs Control and Traditional Medicines Division; National Institute of Health; Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Farnaz Malik
- Drugs Control and Traditional Medicines Division; National Institute of Health; Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Sidra Mahmood
- Department of Pharmacy; Quaid e Azam University; Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Ali Shami
- Orthopaedic Department; Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences; Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Sajid Bashir
- Faculty of Pharmacy; Sargodha University; Sargodha Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kwon HY, Yang B, Godman B. Key Components of Increased Drug Expenditure in South Korea: Implications for the Future. Value Health Reg Issues 2015; 6:14-21. [PMID: 29698186 DOI: 10.1016/j.vhri.2015.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cost of pharmaceuticals has increased rapidly in Korea in recent years. Expenditure is likely to grow further with the policy of expanding National Health Insurance coverage for the following four disease areas: cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease, rare diseases, and cancer. Consequently, there is a need to analyze the different components leading to this increased expenditure as a basis for suggesting future reforms in Korea. OBJECTIVE To quantify the impact of new and established drugs on the growth of total drug spending in South Korea in recent years, specially focusing on the differentiated components of drug spending. These include treatment expansion and drug-mix effects (switching from cheaper drugs to expensive ones and vice versa). METHODS A model was proposed and used to assess the impact of both new and existing drugs on changes in price, quantity, and drug mix over the 5-year period in Korea from 2006 to 2010. The database used was the National Health Insurance claims data, which covers about 97% of the total population of Korea. RESULTS Overall drug spending increased 1.43-fold from 2006 to 2010. Drug-mix effect (εt = 1.32) was the main factor contributing to increased drug spending, followed by increased drug utilization (Qt = 1.26). For existing drugs, treatment expansion (QI) and drug-mix effect (εI) were measured at 1.28 and 1.24, respectively, while those of new drugs were 1.02 (QN) and 1.03 (εN). Therefore, existing drugs have a much greater effect on drug spending than do new drugs. According to the Anatomical Therapeutic Classification, drug spending rose most significantly for the "sensory organs" class of drugs (Et = 1.78) followed by the "various" class (Et = 1.68). For existing drugs in the sensory organs class (S), drug-mix effect (εI) was measured at 0.96. This implies that expensive drugs among existing drugs were replaced by cheaper ones. However, the quantity prescribed (QI) substantially increased by 1.88-fold. New drugs within this class that were more expensive than existing ones were also prescribed (εN = 1.09), further increasing drug expenditure in Korea. CONCLUSIONS We found contrasting results from previous studies. The drug-mix effect and existing drugs made the largest contribution to drug spending growth rather than new drugs. Policies targeting drug mix, such as promoting cost-effective prescription and rational use of drugs, including the use of cheaper cost generics without compromising care, should be primarily considered to help contain future drug expenditure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Young Kwon
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea; Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bongmin Yang
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Brian Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK; Liverpool Health Economics Centre, Liverpool University, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Truter I, Shankar S, Bennie M, Woerkom MV, Godman B. Initiatives in South Africa to enhance the prescribing of generic proton pump inhibitors: findings and implications. J Comp Eff Res 2015; 4:123-31. [DOI: 10.2217/cer.14.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There have been multiple reforms in South Africa to conserve resources including policies to enhance generic use, such as compulsory generic substitution and copayments. However, there are concerns with the limited knowledge of their impact. Objective: The objective was to determine utilization and expenditure of different proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Methodology: A retrospective drug utilization study was conducted on a prescription database of a medical aid administrator in 2010. Results: The limited prescribing of single-sourced PPIs accounted for 21.5% of total prescriptions. The limited use of originators omeprazole and lansoprazole accounted for 1.8 and 1.4% of total prescriptions for the molecule, respectively. Generic prices accounted for 36–68% of the originator in 2010. Patients received on average 2.91 PPI prescriptions during the year. Conclusion: Policies to enhance prescribing of generics appear working. Opportunities exist to further lower generic prices given low prices in some European countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilse Truter
- Drug Utilization Research Unit (DURU), Department of Pharmacy, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa
| | - Sushma Shankar
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Marion Bennie
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Menno van Woerkom
- Dutch Institute for Rational Use of Medicines, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
- National Institute for Science & Technology on Innovation on Neglected Diseases, Center for Technological Development in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zeng W, Gustafsson LL, Bennie M, Finlayson AE, Godman B. Review of ongoing initiatives to improve prescribing efficiency in China; angiotensin receptor blockers as a case history. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2014; 15:157-69. [PMID: 25348709 DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2015.963557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmaceutical expenditure is rising by 16% per annum in China and is now 46% of total expenditure. Initiatives to moderate growth include drug pricing regulations and encouraging international non-proprietary name prescribing. However, there is no monitoring of physician prescribing quality and perverse incentives. OBJECTIVES Assess changes in angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) utilization and expenditure as more generics become available; compare findings to Europe. METHODOLOGY Observational retrospective study of ARB utilization and expenditure between 2006 and 2012 in the largest hospital in Chongqing district. RESULTS Variable and low use of generics versus originators with a maximum of 31% among single ARBs. Similar for fixed dose combinations. Prices typically reduced over time, greatest for generic telmisartan (-54%), mirroring price reductions in some European countries. However, no preferential increase in prescribing of lower cost generics. Accumulated savings of 33 million CNY for this large provider if they adopted European practices. CONCLUSION Considerable opportunities to improve prescribing efficiency in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Zeng
- School of Management, Chongqing Jiaotong University, No.66 Xuefu Road, Nan'an District, Chongqing 400074, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Woerkom MV, Piepenbrink H, Godman B, Metz JD, Campbell S, Bennie M, Eimers M, Gustafsson LL. Ongoing measures to enhance the efficiency of prescribing of proton pump inhibitors and statins in The Netherlands: influence and future implications. J Comp Eff Res 2014; 1:527-38. [PMID: 24236472 DOI: 10.2217/cer.12.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple reforms have recently been introduced in The Netherlands to improve prescribing efficiency. These include preference pricing policies for multiple sourced products, guidelines, and quality and efficiency targets, as well as regular pharmacotherapy meetings. OBJECTIVES Assess the influence of these multiple measures on prescribing efficiency. METHODS Retrospective observational study of all reimbursed prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors and statins between 2000 and 2010 using the Genees-en hulpmiddelen Informatie Project (Health Insurance) database. Utilization measured in defined daily doses. Narrative review of reforms. RESULTS Reimbursed expenditure for the proton pump inhibitors fell by 58% in 2010 versus 2000 despite a threefold increase in utilization, helped by increasing utilization of generic omeprazole at only 2% of the prepatent loss price in 2010. Similarly, reimbursed expenditure for the statins fell by 14% in 2010 versus 2000 despite a 3.8-fold increase in utilization. Again, this was helped by increasing utilization of generic simvastatin at only 2% of the prepatent loss originator price. CONCLUSION Multiple supply and demand measures, including the preference pricing policy, appear to have appreciably enhanced proton pump inhibitor and statin prescribing efficiency, providing examples to other countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Menno van Woerkom
- Dutch Institute for Rational Use of Medicines, Churchillaan 11, 3527 GV Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kalaba M, Godman B, Vuksanović A, Bennie M, Malmström RE. Possible ways to enhance renin-angiotensin prescribing efficiency: Republic of Serbia as a case history? J Comp Eff Res 2014; 1:539-49. [PMID: 24236473 DOI: 10.2217/cer.12.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple reforms have been instigated across Europe to enhance prescribing efficiency. Supply-side reforms in the Republic of Serbia include measures to lower the price of generics and originators, with demand-side measures including patient copayments and prescribing restrictions. Specific measures for renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs include a 50% copayment for angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) versus approximately 50 cents per prescription for established angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), as there is no perceived difference in effectiveness between the two classes. OBJECTIVES To assess the influence of these measures on ARB utilization, as well as reimbursed prices of ACEIs and ARBs over time. METHOD Observational retrospective case study of all ambulatory care patients in the Republic of Serbia's Health Insurance Fund database who were dispensed at least one ACEI or ARB alone or in combination (fixed dose combination [FDC]) between 2005 and 2011. Utilization measured in defined daily doses (DDDs) and only reimbursed expenditure (overall and expenditure/DDD) as Health Insurance perspective. RESULTS There was a 1.8-fold increase in renin-angiotensin inhibitor drug utilization, rising to 207.4 DDDs/1000 inhabitants per day in 2011. This is driven principally by a 19.6-fold increase in ACEI FDCs. There was only limited utilization of ARBs at just 2% of total renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs in 2011. Reimbursed expenditure increased 2.54-fold due to an appreciable increase in ACEI FDC utilization at approximately twice the cost of ACEIs in recent years. Alongside this, we noted considerable differences in expenditure/DDD for different ACEIs. CONCLUSION & FUTURE PERSPECTIVE: High patient copayments for ARBs appreciably limited their utilization in Serbia, which mirrors the findings from other studies. Potential future measures to enhance prescribing efficiency include reference pricing for ACEIs based on the lowest price of an established ACEI. In addition, reference pricing for FDCs should be based on the reference price of the individual components combined. This builds on recent reforms restricting the reimbursement of FDCs until 3 months after individual components have been prescribed separately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Kalaba
- Republic Fund for Health Insurance Jovana Marinoviča 2, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Godman B, Wettermark B, van Woerkom M, Fraeyman J, Alvarez-Madrazo S, Berg C, Bishop I, Bucsics A, Campbell S, Finlayson AE, Fürst J, Garuoliene K, Herholz H, Kalaba M, Laius O, Piessnegger J, Sermet C, Schwabe U, Vlahović-Palčevski VV, Markovic-Pekovic V, Vončina L, Malinowska K, Zara C, Gustafsson LL. Multiple policies to enhance prescribing efficiency for established medicines in Europe with a particular focus on demand-side measures: findings and future implications. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:106. [PMID: 24987370 PMCID: PMC4060455 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The appreciable growth in pharmaceutical expenditure has resulted in multiple initiatives across Europe to lower generic prices and enhance their utilization. However, considerable variation in their use and prices. OBJECTIVE Assess the influence of multiple supply and demand-side initiatives across Europe for established medicines to enhance prescribing efficiency before a decision to prescribe a particular medicine. Subsequently utilize the findings to suggest potential future initiatives that countries could consider. METHOD An analysis of different methodologies involving cross national and single country retrospective observational studies on reimbursed use and expenditure of PPIs, statins, and renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs among European countries. RESULTS Nature and intensity of the various initiatives appreciably influenced prescribing behavior and expenditure, e.g., multiple measures resulted in reimbursed expenditure for PPIs in Scotland in 2010 56% below 2001 levels despite a 3-fold increase in utilization and in the Netherlands, PPI expenditure fell by 58% in 2010 vs. 2000 despite a 3-fold increase in utilization. A similar picture was seen with prescribing restrictions, i.e., (i) more aggressive follow-up of prescribing restrictions for patented statins and ARBs resulted in a greater reduction in the utilization of patented statins in Austria vs. Norway and lower utilization of patented ARBs vs. generic ACEIs in Croatia than Austria. However, limited impact of restrictions on esomeprazole in Norway with the first prescription or recommendation in hospital where restrictions do not apply. Similar findings when generic losartan became available in Western Europe. CONCLUSIONS Multiple demand-side measures are needed to influence prescribing patterns. When combined with supply-side measures, activities can realize appreciable savings. Health authorities cannot rely on a "spill over" effect between classes to affect changes in prescribing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge Stockholm, Sweden ; Medicines Use and Health, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde Glasgow, UK ; Liverpool Health Economics Centre, University of Liverpool Management School Liverpool, UK
| | - Bjorn Wettermark
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge Stockholm, Sweden ; Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden ; Department of Healthcare Development, Public Healthcare Services Committee, Stockholm County Council Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Jessica Fraeyman
- Epidemiology and Social Medicine, Research Group Medical Sociology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Samantha Alvarez-Madrazo
- Medicines Use and Health, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde Glasgow, UK
| | - Christian Berg
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health Oslo, Norway
| | - Iain Bishop
- Public Health and Intelligence Business Unit, National Services NHS Scotland Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna Bucsics
- Department of Finance, Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics, University of Vienna Vienna, Austria ; Department of Reimbursement, Hauptverband der Österreichischen Sozialversicherungsträger Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Centre for Primary Care, Institute of Population Health, University of Manchester Manchester, UK
| | | | - Jurij Fürst
- Health Insurance Institute Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kristina Garuoliene
- Department of Pathology, Forensic Medicine and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Vilnius Vilnius, Lithuania ; Medicines Reimbursement Department, National Health Insurance Fund Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Harald Herholz
- Kasemarzliche Vereinigung Hessen Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Marija Kalaba
- Department of Medicines and Pharmacoeconomics, Republic Fund for Health Insurance Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ott Laius
- State Agency of Medicines Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jutta Piessnegger
- Department of Reimbursement, Hauptverband der Österreichischen Sozialversicherungsträger Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Ulrich Schwabe
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Heidelberg Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Vanda Markovic-Pekovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka Banja Luka, Republic Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina ; Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Banja Luka, Republic Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Luka Vončina
- Ministry of Health Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kamila Malinowska
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, Public Health School Warsaw, Poland ; Drug Management Department, National Health Fund Warsaw, Poland
| | - Corinne Zara
- Barcelona Health Region, Catalan Health Service Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lars L Gustafsson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Markovic-Pekovic V, Škrbić R, Godman B, Gustafsson LL. Ongoing initiatives in the Republic of Srpska to enhance prescribing efficiency: influence and future directions. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/erp.12.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
22
|
Fraeyman J, Van Hal G, Godman B, Beutels P. The potential influence of various initiatives to improve rational prescribing for proton pump inhibitors and statins in Belgium. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2014; 13:141-51. [DOI: 10.1586/erp.12.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
23
|
Hesse U, Godman B, Petzold M, Martin A, Malmström RE. Impact of delisting ARBs, apart from losartan, on ARB utilisation patterns in Denmark: implications for other countries. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2013; 11:677-685. [PMID: 24105097 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-013-0059-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs have been a target for health authority initiatives across Europe with the potential for substantial savings once generic angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) became available without compromising care. Recently, losartan was the first angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to lose its patent. In Denmark, the authorities removed all other ARBs from the reimbursement list, apart from losartan, as they were all seen as essentially similar for the management of hypertension or congestive heart failure at appropriate doses, but more expensive. Similarly, all other ARB fixed-dose combinations (FDCs), apart from losartan, were removed from the reimbursement list. OBJECTIVE The aims of the study were to (i) assess the impact of these reimbursement changes on the subsequent utilisation of losartan and other ARBs alone or as FDCs; (ii) assess changes in the prices of losartan and other ARBs post-generic losartan to calculate potential savings; and (iii) compare the impact of the policies in Denmark with other European countries to provide guidance. METHODOLOGY This was a retrospective segmented regression analysis of an interrupted time-series design comparing utilisation patterns before and after the changes in ARB reimbursement status. Utilisation was measured in defined daily doses (DDDs). Changes in total expenditure and expenditure/DDD were also assessed over time. RESULTS Losartan utilisation grew from 31 to 33 % of total single ARB utilisation before generic losartan, to 93 % by October 2011. There was a corresponding decrease in the utilisation of all other ARBs. Both changes were significant (p < 0.001). Total expenditure on single ARBs in 2011 was 77 % below 2009 levels despite a 16 % increase in utilisation. Estimated savings were 290.5 million Danish Kroner (DKK). A similar trend was seen for losartan FDCs, which was also significant (p < 0.001). DISCUSSION Losartan utilisation grew appreciable following the changes. The change was much greater than seen in countries that had eased prescribing restrictions for losartan but not the other ARBs. Active therapeutic switching programmes plus education and financial incentives also significantly enhanced losartan utilisation following generics in two countries and regions; however, the increase in losartan utilisation was less than that seen in Denmark.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrik Hesse
- National Institute for Health Data and Disease Control, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Godman B, Wettermark B, Miranda J, Bennie M, Martin A, Malmström RE. Influence of multiple initiatives in Sweden to enhance ARB prescribing efficiency following generic losartan; findings and implications for other countries. Int J Clin Pract 2013; 67:853-62. [PMID: 23560825 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Encouraging the prescribing of ACEIs first line vs. angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) has been a health authority focus with generic ACEIs as ACEIs and ARBs have similar effectiveness and there is limited coughing with ACEIs. This includes Sweden with its multiple initiatives keeping expenditure on renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs similar between 2001 and 2007 despite appreciably increased volumes. Generic losartan became available and was reimbursed in March 2010 providing further opportunities for the authorities in Sweden to save costs with all ARBs seen as similar in managing hypertension and CHF at appropriate doses. AIMS The main aim of this study was to assess changes in the utilisation of losartan vs. other single ARBs after generic losartan alongside accompanying demand-side measures. Additional aims were to (i) assess changes in the price of generic losartan and single ARB expenditure over time; (ii) suggest additional programmes, if needed; and (iii) analyse utilisation of ARB FDCs and compare with ACEI FDCs. METHODS Retrospective observational study using an interrupted time series design. RESULTS Multiple demand-side measures introduced among the 21 Counties in Sweden significantly enhanced the utilisation of generic losartan, growing from 26% to 27% of total ARBs (DDD basis) before generic losartan to 40% by August 2011. Losartan was principally generics (97% by August 2011). Expenditure/DDD for generic losartan was 10% of the pre-patent loss price in August 2011. This reduced total single ARB expenditure by 26% by the study end despite a 16% increase in utilisation. Greater utilisation of ARB FDCs than seen with ACEI FDCs. This may be due to similarities in prices between single and FDC ARBs. DISCUSSION Multiple demand-side measures appreciably enhanced ARB prescribing efficiency, mirroring other studies. No significant increase in losartan utilisation following generics was seen in European countries where no specific measures were instigated. Losartan price reduction was in line with expectations. CONCLUSION Multiple and intensive demand-side measures are needed to change physician prescribing habits. Authorities cannot rely on physicians transferring their activities from one class to another without interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Godman B, Persson M, Miranda J, Skiöld P, Wettermark B, Barbui C, Gustafsson LL. Changes in the utilization of venlafaxine after the introduction of generics in Sweden. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2013; 11:383-393. [PMID: 23754677 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-013-0037-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an appreciable increase in the prescribing efficiency of proton pump inhibitors, statins, and renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs in Sweden in recent years. This has been achieved through multiple reforms encouraging the prescription of generics at low prices versus patented drugs in the same class. Generic venlafaxine also presents an opportunity to save costs given the prevalence of depression. However, depression is more complex to treat, with physicians reluctant to change prescriptions if patients are responding to a particular antidepressant. OBJECTIVES We assessed (a) changes in the utilization pattern of venlafaxine versus other newer antidepressants before and after the availability of generic venlafaxine and before and after the initiation of prescription restrictions for duloxetine limiting its prescription to refractory patients, (b) utilization of generic versus original venlafaxine after its availability, and (c) price reductions for generic venlafaxine and the subsequent influence on total expenditure on newer antidepressants over time. METHODOLOGY We performed interrupted time series analysis of changes in monthly reimbursed prescriptions using defined daily doses (DDDs) of patients dispensed at least one newer antidepressant from January 2007 to August 2011. DDDs was defined as the average maintenance dose of a drug when used in its major indication in adults. This included 19 months after the availability of generic venlafaxine and before initiation of prescription restrictions for duloxetine to 13 months after prescription restrictions. Total expenditure and expenditure/DDD for venlafaxine were measured over time. RESULTS No appreciable change in the utilization pattern for venlafaxine was observed after generic availability when no appreciable demand-side activities by the regions (counties) were implemented to encourage its use. The utilization of venlafaxine significantly increased after prescription restrictions for duloxetine. Generic venlafaxine was dispensed once available, reaching 99.6 % of total venlafaxine (DDD basis) by August 2011. There was an appreciable fall in expenditure for newer antidepressants in Sweden after generic venlafaxine despite increased utilization, helped by a 90 % reduction in expenditure/DDD for venlafaxine by the end of the study versus prepatent loss prices. CONCLUSION Multiple demand-side measures are needed to change physician prescribing habits. Authorities should not rely on a spillover effect between drug classes to effect change. Limited influence of prescription restrictions on the subsequent utilization of duloxetine reflects the complexity of this disease area. This is exacerbated by heterogeneous indications for duloxetine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Godman B, Persson M, Miranda J, Barbui C, Bennie M, Finlayson AE, Raschi E, Wettermark B. Can authorities take advantage of the availability of generic atypical antipsychotic drugs? Findings from Sweden and potential implications. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/jphs.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Division of Clinical Pharmacology; Karolinska Institute; Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge; Stockholm Sweden
- Liverpool Health Economics Centre; University of Liverpool; Liverpool UK
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; University of Strathclyde; Glasgow UK
| | - Marie Persson
- Unit of Medicine Support; Public Healthcare Services Committee Administration; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Jamilette Miranda
- Department of Healthcare Development; Public Healthcare Services Committee Administration; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation; Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Section of Psychiatry; University of Verona; Verona Italy
| | - Marion Bennie
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; University of Strathclyde; Glasgow UK
- Information Services Division; NHS National Services Scotland; Edinburgh UK
| | - Alexander E Finlayson
- King's Centre for Global Health; Global Health Offices; Weston Education Centre; London UK
| | - Emanuel Raschi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences; Pharmacology Unit; Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - Bjorn Wettermark
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Division of Clinical Pharmacology; Karolinska Institute; Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Healthcare Development; Public Healthcare Services Committee Administration; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemilogy; Karolinska Institute; Karolinska University Hospital Solna; Stockholm Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Simoens S, De Bruyn K, Miranda J, Bennie M, Malmström RE, Godman B. Measures to enhance angiotensin-receptor blocker prescribing efficiency in Belgium following generic losartan: impact and implications for the future. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/jphs.12024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Simoens
- KU Leuven Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences; Leuven Belgium
| | - Kristien De Bruyn
- Centre for Statistics; Belgian Pharmaceutical Society; Brussels Belgium
| | - Jamilette Miranda
- Department of Healthcare Development; Public Healthcare Services Committee Administration; Stockholm County Council; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Marion Bennie
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; University of Strathclyde; Glasgow UK
- Information Services Division; NHS National Services Scotland; Edinburgh UK
| | - Rickard E. Malmström
- Department of Medicine; Clinical Pharmacology Unit; Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Division of Clinical Pharmacology; Karolinska Institutet; Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge; Stockholm Sweden
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; University of Strathclyde; Glasgow UK
- Liverpool Health Economics Centre; University of Liverpool Management School; Liverpool UK
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pichetti S, Sermet C, Godman B, Campbell SM, Gustafsson LL. Multilevel analysis of the influence of patients' and general practitioners' characteristics on patented versus multiple-sourced statin prescribing in France. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2013; 11:205-218. [PMID: 23609765 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-013-0014-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The French National Health Insurance and the Ministry of Health have introduced multiple reforms in recent years to increase prescribing efficiency. These include guidelines, academic detailing, financial incentives for the prescribing and dispensing of generics drugs as well as a voluntary pay-for-performance programme. However, the quality and efficiency of prescribing could be enhanced potentially if there was better understanding of the dynamics of prescribing behaviour in France. OBJECTIVE To analyse the patient and general practitioner characteristics that influence patented versus multiple-sourced statin prescribing in France. METHODOLOGY Statistical analysis was performed on the statin prescribing habits from 341 general practitioners (GPs) that were included in the IMS-Health Permanent Survey on Medical Prescription in France, which was conducted between 2009 and 2010 and involved 14,360 patients. Patient characteristics included their age and gender as well as five medical profiles that were constructed from the diagnoses obtained during consultations. These were (1) disorders of lipoprotein metabolism, (2) heart disease, (3) diabetes, (4) complex profiles and (5) profiles based on other diagnoses. Physician characteristics included their age, gender, solo or group practice, weekly workload and payment scheme. RESULTS Patient age had a statistically significant impact on statin prescribing for patients in profile 1 (disorders of lipoprotein metabolism) and profile 3 (complex profiles) with a greater number of patented statins being prescribed for the youngest patients. For instance, patients older than 76 years with a complex profile were prescribed fewer patented statins than patients aged 68-76 years old with the same medical profile (coefficient: -0.225; p = 0.0008). By contrast, regardless of the patient's age, the medical profile did not affect the probability of prescribing a patented statin except in young patients with heart diseases who were prescribed a greater number of patented statins (coefficient: 0.3992; p = 0.0007). Prescribing was also statistically influenced by physician features, e.g., older male physicians were more likely to prescribe patented statins (coefficient: 0.245; p = 0.0417) and GPs practicing in groups were more likely to prescribe multiple sourced statins (coefficient: -0.178; p = 0.0338), which is an important finding of the study. GPs with a lower workload prescribed a greater number of patented statins. CONCLUSION There is significant variability in the prescribing of different statins among patient and physician profiles as well as between solo and group practices. Consequently, there are opportunities to target demand-side measures to enhance the prescribing of multiple-sourced statins. Further studies are warranted, in particular in other therapeutic classes, to provide a counter-balance to the considerable marketing activities of pharmaceutical companies.
Collapse
|
29
|
Godman B, Gustafsson LL. A new reimbursement system for innovative pharmaceuticals combining value-based and free market pricing. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2013; 11:79-82. [PMID: 23322546 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-012-0008-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
|
30
|
Bennie M, Bishop I, Godman B, Barbui C, Raschi E, Campbell S, Miranda J, Gustafsson LL. Are specific initiatives required to enhance prescribing of generic atypical antipsychotics in Scotland?: International implications. Int J Clin Pract 2013; 67:170-80. [PMID: 23305478 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND National and regional authorities in Scotland have introduced multiple measures to appreciably enhance prescribing efficiency for the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), statins and renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs. Generic oral risperidone recently became available in Scotland; however, schizophrenia is a complex disease with advice from respected authorities suggesting that treatment should be individualised. AIMS To assess (i) changes in atypical antipsychotic drug (AAP) utilisation and expenditure following the availability of oral generic risperidone in Scotland; (ii) to determine (a) current INN prescribing rates for risperidone following generic availability and (b) decrease in expenditure/DDD for generic risperidone; (iii) to suggest additional measures that could possibly be introduced in Scotland to further enhance prescribing of generic AAPs; and (iv) to provide guidance to NHS Scotland as well as other European authorities on the implications. METHODS Retrospective observational study and an interrupted time series design. RESULTS No appreciable change in the utilisation patterns of risperidone pre- and postgeneric availability. Appreciable INN prescribing averaged 93-98% of total oral risperidone. Generic risperidone was 84% below prepatent loss prices by study end, reducing annual expenditure for oral risperidone in 2010 by GB£3.19mn compared with prepatent loss situation. However, overall expenditure on AAPs increased by 42% from 2005 to 2010. DISCUSSION As expected, there was no change in utilisation patterns for risperidone, although potential to influence prescribing patterns. Continued high INN prescribing suggests no problems with generic risperidone in practice. Costs will start to decrease as more AAPs lose their patents (olanzapine and quetiapine). There is the possibility to accelerate this reduction through educational activities. CONCLUSION There is potential to realise some savings with generic AAPs. However, this is limited by the complexity of the disease area. Any measures introduced must aim at increasing the prescribing of generic AAPs first line in suitable patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Bennie
- Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Godman B, Bucsics A, Burkhardt T, Piessnegger J, Schmitzer M, Barbui C, Raschi E, Bennie M, Gustafsson LL. Potential to enhance the prescribing of generic drugs in patients with mental health problems in austria; implications for the future. Front Pharmacol 2013; 3:198. [PMID: 23308071 PMCID: PMC3538280 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scrutiny over pharmaceutical expenditure is increasing leading to multiple reforms. This includes Austria with measures to lower generic prices and enhance their utilization. However the situation for newer antidepressants and atypical antipsychotic medicines (AAPs) is different to PPIs, statins, and renin-angiotensin inhibitor drugs with greater tailoring of therapy and no wish to switch products in stable patients. Authorities welcome generics though given the high costs particularly of single-sourced AAPs. OBJECTIVE Assess (a) changes in utilization of venlafaxine versus other newer antidepressants before and after availability of generics, (b) utilization of generic versus originator venlafaxine, (c) price reductions of venlafaxine over time and their influence on total expenditure, (d) utilization of risperidone versus other AAPs, (e) suggest potential additional reforms that could be introduced if pertinent to further enhance the use of generics. METHODOLOGY A quasi-experimental study design with a segmented time series and an observational study. Utilization measured in defined daily doses (DDDs) and total expenditure per DDD and over time. RESULTS No appreciable changes in the utilization of venlafaxine and risperidone after generics. The reduction in expenditure/DDD for venlafaxine decreased overall expenditure on newer antidepressants by 5% by the end of the study versus just before generics despite a 37% increase in utilization. Expenditure will further decrease if reduced prescribing of duloxetine. CONCLUSION Depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar diseases are complex diseases. As a result, specific measures are needed to encourage the prescribing of generic risperidone and venlafaxine when multiple choices are appropriate. Authorities cannot rely on a "Hawthorne" effect between classes to enhance the use of generics. Measures may include prescribing restrictions for duloxetine. No specific measures planned for AAPs with more multiple-sourced AAPs becoming available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge Stockholm, Sweden ; Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research Milan, Italy ; Prescribing Research Group, University of Liverpool Management School Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Brkicic LS, Godman B, Voncina L, Sovic S, Relja M. Initiatives to improve prescribing efficiency for drugs to treat Parkinson's disease in Croatia: influence and future directions. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2012; 12:373-84. [PMID: 22812560 DOI: 10.1586/erp.12.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurological disease affecting older adults. Consequently, this disease should be a focus among payers, with increasing utilization of newer premium-priced patent-protected add-on therapies to stabilize or even improve motor function over time. However, expenditure can be moderated by reforms. Consequently, there is a need to assess the influence of these reforms on the prescribing efficiency for drugs to treat PD in Croatia before proposing additional measures. Prescribing efficiency is defined as increasing the use of add-on therapies for similar expenditure. An observational retrospective study of the Croatian Institute for Health Insurance database of drugs to treat patients with PD in Croatia from 2000 to 2010 was carried out, with utilization measured in defined daily doses (defined as the average maintenance dose of a drug when used in its major indication in adults). The study years were chosen to reflect recent reforms. Only reimbursed expenditure is measured from a health insurance perspective. Utilization of drugs to treat PD increased by 218% between 2000 and 2010. Reimbursed expenditure increased by 360%, principally driven by increasing utilization of premium-priced patent-protected add-on therapies, including ropinirole and pramipexole. However, following recent reforms, reducing expenditure/defined daily dose for the different drugs, as well as overall expenditure, stabilized reimbursed expenditure between 2005 and 2010. Treatment of PD is complex, and add-on therapies are needed to improve care. Reimbursed expenditure should now fall following stabilization, despite increasing volumes, as successive add-on therapies lose their patents, further increasing prescribing efficiency.
Collapse
|
33
|
Abuelkhair M, Abdu S, Godman B, Fahmy S, Malmström RE, Gustafsson LL. Imperative to consider multiple initiatives to maximize prescribing efficiency from generic availability: case history from Abu Dhabi. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2012; 12:115-24. [PMID: 22280201 DOI: 10.1586/erp.11.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmaceutical expenditure has risen rapidly in Abu Dhabi, resulting in policies surrounding generics. However, various circumstances will reduce potential savings, including pharmacists still being free to dispense either originator or branded generics and be fully reimbursed. OBJECTIVES To research the changes in utilization patterns of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and lipid-lowering drugs before and after combined reforms on generics; and subsequently, calculate potential savings based on 'best practices' among Western European countries. METHODS An uncontrolled before-and-after observational study of utilization and expenditure of PPIs, statins and ezetimibe between 2004 and 2010, as well as up to 12 months before the first generic policy, to 1 year after the second generic policy, was carried out. Utilization was converted to defined daily doses (DDDs; 2011 DDDs) and DDDs/1000 inhabitants per day. Expenditure/DDD was calculated for omeprazole and simvastatin. RESULTS PPI utilization rose by 6.5-fold from 2004 to 2010, principally driven by increased utilization of patent-protected PPIs, although more recently stabilization in esomperazole utilization has occurred. Similar changes were seen for statins. Introduction of best practices would reduce PPI expenditure in 2010 by 32.8 million United Arab Emirates dirham (AED; €6.26 million) and statins by over 27 million AED (€5.15 million). CONCLUSION Limited demand-side measures led to increased utilization of patent-protected products in Abu Dhabi following the generic reforms. Successful measures will release considerable resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Abuelkhair
- Drugs and Medical Products Regulation, Health Authority - Abu Dhabi, PO Box 5674, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bennie M, Godman B, Bishop I, Campbell S. Multiple initiatives continue to enhance the prescribing efficiency for the proton pump inhibitors and statins in Scotland. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2012; 12:125-30. [PMID: 22280202 DOI: 10.1586/erp.11.98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple and intensive demand measures in Scotland have appreciably enhanced prescribing efficiency for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and statins in 2007 versus 2001. Statin utilization enhanced by measures to increase doses prescribed, including the Quality and Outcome Framework (QoF). AIMS Ascertain whether the plethora of measures continue to enhance prescribing efficiency for PPIs and statins. Second, assess whether the combined impact of the QoF targets and guidance enhances the prescribing of higher strength statins, mirroring the situation in England. METHOD PPI and statin utilization measured in terms of defined daily doses (DDDs) and DDDs per 1000 inhabitants per day (2010 DDDs) between 2001 and 2010, number and strength of simvastatin and atorvastatin tablets dispensed, and reimbursed expenditure per DDD and 1000 inhabitants per year. RESULTS Expenditure per DDD for generic omeprazole in 2010 was 91% below the 2001 originator price, leading to expenditure per 1000 inhabitants for PPIs in 2010 to be 56% below 2001 despite a threefold increase in utilization. Expenditure per DDD for generic simvastatin in 2010 was 97% below the 2002 originator price. Expenditure per 1000 inhabitants for statins in 2010 only increased by 7% compared with 2001 despite a 6.2-fold increase in utilization. Utilization of higher strength statins has increased in recent years, with higher strength simvastatin (40 and 80 mg) accounting for 85% of total statins (DDD basis) in 2010. CONCLUSION Reforms appear to be working to further enhance prescribing efficiency. Utilization of higher strength statins in recent years should further improve outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Bennie
- Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Vončina L, Strizrep T, Godman B, Bennie M, Bishop I, Campbell S, Vlahović-Palčevski V, Gustafsson LL. Influence of demand-side measures to enhance renin-angiotensin prescribing efficiency in Europe: implications for the future. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2011; 11:469-79. [PMID: 21831028 DOI: 10.1586/erp.11.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED European countries strive to enhance prescribing efficiency. This includes renin-angiotensin drugs following the availability of generic angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). AIMS To compare angiotensin receptor blocker utilization and expenditure patterns in Austria and Croatia following prescribing restrictions, as well as with other European countries introducing different supply- and demand-side measures. Lastly, to appraise the impact of generic losartan in Croatia on utilization of patented angiotensin receptor blockers. METHOD Observational retrospective study principally between 2001 and 2007, using defined daily doses and €/1000 inhabitants/year. Demand-side measures were based on the four 'E's - education, engineering, economics and enforcement. RESULTS Greater intensity of follow-up of prescribing restrictions in Croatia enhanced utilization of ACEIs versus Austria. There was high utilization of ACEIs in Scotland following intensive demand-side measures, similar to Austria and Croatia. Demand-side measures in Spain (Catalonia) and Sweden also appeared to moderate angiotensin receptor blockers utilization. The combination of measures helped stabilize expenditure on renin-angiotensin drugs when adjusted for population sizes despite appreciable increases in volumes. The only exception was Portugal, with less intensive measures. CONCLUSION Multiple and intensive demand-side measures enhanced prescribing efficiency. The more intense follow-up of ARB prescribing restrictions in Croatia had a greater influence on subsequent utilization patterns than Austria. Both findings confirm earlier studies. Reforms also favorably enhanced the prescribing of generic losartan once available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luka Vončina
- Croatian Institute for Health Insurance, Margaretska 3, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gustafsson LL, Wettermark B, Godman B, Andersén-Karlsson E, Bergman U, Hasselström J, Hensjö LO, Hjemdahl P, Jägre I, Julander M, Ringertz B, Schmidt D, Sjöberg S, Sjöqvist F, Stiller CO, Törnqvist E, Tryselius R, Vitols S, von Bahr C. The 'wise list'- a comprehensive concept to select, communicate and achieve adherence to recommendations of essential drugs in ambulatory care in Stockholm. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2011; 108:224-33. [PMID: 21414143 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2011.00682.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to present and evaluate the impact of a comprehensive strategy over 10 years to select, communicate and achieve adherence to essential drug recommendations (EDR) in ambulatory care in a metropolitan healthcare region. EDRs were issued and launched as a 'Wise List' by the regional Drug and Therapeutics Committee in Stockholm. This study presents the concept by: (i) documenting the process for selecting, communicating and monitoring the impact of the 'Wise List'; (ii) analysing the variation in the number of drug substances recommended between 2000 and 2010; (iii) assessing the attitudes to the 'Wise List' among prescribers and the public; (iv) evaluating the adherence to recommendations between 2003 and 2009. The 'Wise List' consistently contained 200 drug substances for treating common diseases. The drugs were selected based on their efficacy, safety, suitability and cost-effectiveness. The 'Wise List' was known among one-third of a surveyed sample of the public in 2002 after initial marketing campaigns. All surveyed prescribers knew about the concept and 81% found the recommendations trustworthy in 2005. Adherence to recommendations increased from 69% in 1999 to 77% in 2009. In primary care, adherence increased from 83% to 87% from 2003 to 2009. The coefficient of variation (CV%) decreased from 6.1% to 3.8% for 156 healthcare centres between these years. The acceptance of the 'Wise List' in terms of trust among physicians and among the public and increased adherence may be explained by clear criteria for drug recommendations, a comprehensive communication strategy, electronic access to recommendations, continuous medical education and involvement of professional networks and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars L Gustafsson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Godman B, Sakshaug S, Berg C, Wettermark B, Haycox A. Combination of prescribing restrictions and policies to engineer low prices to reduce reimbursement costs. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2011; 11:121-9. [PMID: 21351864 DOI: 10.1586/erp.10.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To primarily document the influence of recent changes in the pricing policies for generics and originators in Norway, coupled with prescribing restrictions for both the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and statins, on subsequent prescribing efficiency, to provide possible examples to other countries. Second, to review the impact of prescribing restrictions on ezetimibe utilization in Norway compared with other European countries, again to provide guidance. METHODS A retrospective observational study using data from the Norwegian Drug Wholesales Statistics to evaluate changes in utilization patterns for the PPIs and statins from 2001 to 2009, and the Norwegian Prescription Database for expenditure data from January 2004 to 2009. Reforms validated with key personnel at the Norwegian Medicines Agency. RESULTS Atorvastatin utilization as measured by defined daily doses decreased after prescribing restrictions. This, coupled with increased utilization of generic simvastatin at only 15% of prepatent loss prices in recent years, led to a 55% decrease in statin expenditure in Norway between 2004 and 2009 despite appreciably increased utilization. Utilization of esomeprazole also fell following prescribing restrictions, but to a lesser extent. This reduction, coupled with low prices for generics as a result of recent pricing policies, resulted in PPI expenditure decreasing by 27% during the same period despite again appreciably increased utilization. CONCLUSIONS Policies to reduce the price of generics have been successfully introduced in Norway despite its small population size versus a number of other Western European countries. Prescribing restrictions have also been successfully introduced, mirroring the influence with multifaceted reforms in other European countries. The same applies to ezetimibe with utilization at only 1.9% of total statin and ezetimibe utilization in 2009. However, the difference in subsequent utilization patterns for atorvastatin versus esomeprazole makes it a challenge for health authorities to predict the ultimate impact of such measures. This requires further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Prescribing Research Group, University of Liverpool Management School, Chatham Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZH, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Godman B, Shrank W, Andersen M, Berg C, Bishop I, Burkhardt T, Garuoliene K, Herholz H, Joppi R, Kalaba M, Laius O, Lonsdale J, Malmström RE, Martikainen JE, Samaluk V, Sermet C, Schwabe U, Teixeira I, Tilson L, Tulunay FC, Vlahović-Palčevski V, Wendykowska K, Wettermark B, Zara C, Gustafsson LL. Policies to enhance prescribing efficiency in europe: findings and future implications. Front Pharmacol 2011; 1:141. [PMID: 21833180 PMCID: PMC3153015 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2010.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: European countries need to learn from each other to address unsustainable increases in pharmaceutical expenditures. Objective: To assess the influence of the many supply and demand-side initiatives introduced across Europe to enhance prescribing efficiency in ambulatory care. As a result provide future guidance to countries. Methods: Cross national retrospective observational study of utilization (DDDs – defined daily doses) and expenditure (Euros and local currency) of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and statins among 19 European countries and regions principally from 2001 to 2007. Demand-side measures categorized under the “4Es” – education engineering, economics, and enforcement. Results: Instigating supply side initiatives to lower the price of generics combined with demand-side measures to enhance their prescribing is important to maximize prescribing efficiency. Just addressing one component will limit potential efficiency gains. The influence of demand-side reforms appears additive, with multiple initiatives typically having a greater influence on increasing prescribing efficiency than single measures apart from potentially “enforcement.” There are also appreciable differences in expenditure (€/1000 inhabitants/year) between countries. Countries that have not introduced multiple demand side measures to counteract commercial pressures to enhance the prescribing of generics have seen considerably higher expenditures than those that have instigated a range of measures. Conclusions: There are considerable opportunities for European countries to enhance their prescribing efficiency, with countries already learning from each other. The 4E methodology allows European countries to concisely capture the range of current demand-side measures and plan for the future knowing that initiatives can be additive to further enhance their prescribing efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Institute for Pharmacological Research 'Mario Negri' Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Forslund T, Raaschou P, Hjemdahl P, Krakau I, Wettermark B. Usage, risk, and benefit of weight-loss drugs in primary care. J Obes 2011; 2011:459263. [PMID: 21785716 PMCID: PMC3139204 DOI: 10.1155/2011/459263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose. To investigate the use of the weight-loss drugs rimonabant, sibutramine, and orlistat in primary care and to characterize the patients receiving the drugs. Methods. In this retrospective, descriptive study, 300 randomly selected patients having started weight-loss drug treatment at 15 primary care centres were investigated using the patient's medical records and their complete drug purchase data. Results. Even though 48% of the patients specifically demanded drug treatment, 77% continued treatment less than one year. 28% of rimonabant patients and 32% of sibutramine patients had a history of depression or antidepressant treatment. 41% of sibutramine patients had a history of hypertension and/or cardiovascular disease. 36% had no documented weight after treatment initiation. Conclusions. These results suggest that weight-loss drug treatment was often initiated upon patient request but was of limited clinical benefit as it was managed in a large portion of Swedish primary carecenters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Forslund
- Gröndal Primary Care Centre, P. O. Box 470 43, 100 74 Stockholm, Sweden
- *Tomas Forslund:
| | - Pauline Raaschou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paul Hjemdahl
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingvar Krakau
- Centre for Family and Community Medicine, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm County Council, Huddinge, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Godman B, Shrank W, Wettermark B, Andersen M, Bishop I, Burkhardt T, Garuolienè K, Kalaba M, Laius O, Joppi R, Sermet C, Schwabe U, Teixeira I, Tulunay FC, Wendykowska K, Zara C, Gustafsson LL. Use of Generics-A Critical Cost Containment Measure for All Healthcare Professionals in Europe? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2010; 3:2470-2494. [PMID: 27713363 PMCID: PMC4033935 DOI: 10.3390/ph3082470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2010] [Revised: 07/27/2010] [Accepted: 08/04/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceutical expenditures in ambulatory care rose rapidly in Europe in the 1990s and early 2000s. This was typically faster than other components of healthcare spending, leading to reforms to moderate future growth. A number of these centered on generic medicines with measures to lower reimbursed prices as well as enhance their prescribing and dispensing. The principal objective of this paper is to review additional measures that some European countries can adopt to further reduce reimbursed prices for generics. Secondly, potential approaches to address concerns with generics when they arise to maximize savings. Measures to enhance the prescribing of generics will also briefly be discussed. A narrative review of the extensive number of publications and associated references from the co-authors was conducted supplemented with known internal or web-based articles. In addition, health authority and health insurance databases, principally from 2001 to 2007, were analyzed to assess the impact of the various measures on price reductions for generic omeprazole and generic simvastatin vs. pre-patent loss prices, as well as overall efficiency in Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) and statin prescribing. The various initiatives generally resulted in considerable lowering of the prices of generics as well as specifically for generic omeprazole and generic simvastatin vs. pre-patent loss prices. At one stage in the UK, generic simvastatin was just 2% of the originator price. These measures also led to increased efficiency for PPI and statin prescribing with reimbursed expenditure for the PPIs and statins either falling or increasing at appreciably lower rates than increases in utilization. A number of strategies have also been introduced to address patient and physician concerns with generics to maximize savings. In conclusion, whilst recent reforms have been successful, European countries must continue learning from each other to fund increased volumes and new innovative drugs as resource pressures grow. Policies regarding generics and their subsequent impact on reimbursement and utilization of single sourced products will continue to play a key role to release valuable resources. However, there must continue to be strategies to address concerns with generics when they exist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Institute for Pharmacological Research 'Mario Negri', Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy.
- Prescribing Research Group, University of Liverpool Management School, Chatham Street, Liverpool L69 7ZH, UK.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - William Shrank
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 1620 Tremont Street, suite 3030. Boston, MA 02120, USA.
| | - Bjorn Wettermark
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Morten Andersen
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Iain Bishop
- Information Services Healthcare Information Group, NHS Scotland, 1 South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 9EB, UK.
| | - Thomas Burkhardt
- Hauptverband der Österreichischen Sozialversicherungsträger, Kundmanngasse 21, A-1031 Wien, Austria.
| | - Kristina Garuolienè
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Forensic Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Vilnius, M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21/27, Vilnius, Lithuania.
- Medicines Reimbursement Department, National Health Insurance Fund, Kalvarijų Str. 147, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Marija Kalaba
- Republic Institute for Health Insurance, Jovana Marinovica 2, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Ott Laius
- State Agency of Medicines, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Roberta Joppi
- Institute for Pharmacological Research 'Mario Negri', Via Giuseppe La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy.
- Pharmaceutical Drug Department, Azienda Sanitaria Locale of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | | | - Ulrich Schwabe
- University of Heidelberg, Institute of Pharmacology, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Inês Teixeira
- Center for Health Evaluation & Research, National Association of Pharmacies (ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha, n.º 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - F Cankat Tulunay
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ankara University, Sihhiye, Ankara 06100, Turkey.
| | | | - Corinne Zara
- Barcelona Health Region, Catalan Health Service, Esteve Terrades 30, 08023 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Lars L Gustafsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
McGinn D, Godman B, Lonsdale J, Way R, Wettermark B, Haycox A. Initiatives to enhance the quality and efficiency of statin and PPI prescribing in the UK: impact and implications. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2010; 10:73-85. [PMID: 20121565 DOI: 10.1586/erp.09.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIM To assess the impact of a range of national and regional initiatives introduced in the North Lancashire Teaching Primary Care Trust (NLTPCT) since 2004 to enhance the quality and efficiency of prescribing proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), statins and ezetimibe. In addition, to suggest additional measures that could be introduced in NLTPCT to further enhance the quality and efficiency of prescribing based on initiatives in other European countries. METHOD A before-and-after observational study was undertaken on the utilization and expenditure of prescriptions dispensed in ambulatory care in NLTPCT from 2004 to 2007. Utilization was assessed using 'defined daily doses' (DDDs) and 'DDDs/1000 inhabitants per day' and compared over the study period. Reimbursed expenditure was assessed in terms of overall expenditure, expenditure/DDD, as well as expenditure/1000 inhabitants per year. RESULTS The combination of measures and initiatives enhanced the utilization of generic PPIs. International Nonproprietary Name (INN) prescribing of omeprazole reached 98% of all omeprazole by 2007. The measures also resulted in limited utilization of esomeprazole and lowered reimbursed expenditure/DDD of generic omeprazole to GB pound0.13 by 2007. This was 87% below 2004 originator prices, leading to a 41% fall in PPI expenditure during the study period despite increased utilization. Utilization of statins grew by over 130% during the study period enhanced by increased utilization of high doses of simvastatin and atorvastatin following the introduction of the quality and outcomes framework. Simvastatin dominated statin utilization by 2007, with generic simvastatin accounting for over 99.5% of total simvastatin. Reimbursed expenditure/DDD for generic simvastatin was pound0.03 in 2007, 95% below 2004 originator prices, leading to a fall in overall expenditure on statins. It proved difficult to undertake an impact analysis as, typically, a range of measures were introduced sequentially and simultaneously during the study period. CONCLUSION The findings are in line with expectations and do provide examples to other European countries. This includes a high rate of INN prescribing, low reimbursed prices for generic simvastatin and omeprazole and growing utilization of higher strength statins. The high rate of INN prescribing reduces the need for additional measures that have been instigated in other European countries to further enhance the prescribing and dispensing of generics to fully realize the resource benefits. Additional demand side measures are feasible and have already been instigated to conserve resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane McGinn
- Medicines Management, North Lancashire Teaching PCT, Moor Lane Mills, Lancaster, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Magnezi R, Elzam L, Kliker Y, Kedem R, Fire G, Wilf-Miron R. Cost awareness when prescribing treatment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.12968/bjhc.2010.16.2.46416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Racheli Magnezi
- Department of Health System Management, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University Center, Israel
| | - Lilach Elzam
- Department of Health System Management, Faculty of Health Science, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
| | - Yaniv Kliker
- Department of Health System Management, Faculty of Health Science, Ben Gurion University of the Negev
| | - Ron Kedem
- The Faculty of Pedagogy, Constantine the Philosopher University, Slovakia
| | - Gil Fire
- Sourasky Medical Center, Department of Health System Management, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University Center
| | - Rachel Wilf-Miron
- MD, MHP, Quality Management, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Quality Management, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Israel
| |
Collapse
|