Top Therapeutic Classes by Age of Claim in 2018
1 MIN READ
In this video blog we discuss the types of medications utilized by ill or injured workers can vary depending on the age of the claim and differences in claim population. Understanding the most-utilized types of medications in younger vs. older claims can help guide decision-making and aid in identifying opportunities for intervention that can lead to better overall outcomes. Click the video below to learn more.
Changing Consumer Expectations: Lessons from Home Delivery Services
5 MIN READ
How can the workers' compensation industry learn from other industries in the age of automation and technology? In this article, we will explore the shift to home delivery services and how this shift is relevant to the workers' compensation industry and prescription delivery services.
Will Naloxone Become Available for Purchase without a Prescription?
2 MIN READ
Today, there are two prescription products for use by laypersons. Namely, auto-injector (Evzio®) and intranasal (Narcan® Nasal Spray) naloxone. While they can be administered by someone outside of the healthcare profession, they are only obtainable with a prescription. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) believes an over the counter (OTC) version may remove barriers for obtaining naloxone, particularly for people who are not under the care of a physician or who may be hesitant to admit to issues with opioid abuse.
How Long is a Filled Prescription Good For? Does the Medication Ever Go Bad?
2 MIN READ
The expiration date indicates the time period the prescription drug can be expected to meet the claims of the Pharmacopeial monograph (information sheet provided with a medication), that it conforms to the recommended storage conditions. These dates are usually found on the manufacturer’s container and may be included on the prescription bottle label, depending on various state requirements.
Defining Formularies & Step Therapy Medications
2 MIN READ
HealthCare.gov defines a formulary as, a list of prescription drugs covered by a prescription drug plan offering prescription drug benefits. Typically, a “prior authorization” for coverage is needed when a medication is not listed on the formulary or requires step therapy. Management of the formulary is often maintained by a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), such as First Script. Meaning, when a medication is not on a formulary, First Script would start the prior authorization process to get approval for payment of the medication.
Opioids & Benzodiazepines...a Bad Mix?
2 MIN READ
There are certainly risks associated with combined use of an opioid and a benzodiazepine. Taking an opioid pain medication with other opioid medicines, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, decreased awareness, breathing problems, coma, and death. These risks occur because opioids and benzodiazepines affect the CNS, which controls most of the functions of the brain and body.
What Will Opioid Legislation do for Pharmacy and Opioid Risk Management?
2 MIN READ
In October 2018, Congress passed H.R.6, the “Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities Act” (also known as SUPPORT for Patients and Com