PBMs PUSH E-PRESCRIBING TO BOOST GENERIC DRUGS

An association of pharmacy benefitmanagers (PBMs) is urging the federalgovernment to encourage the developmentof electronic prescribing (e-prescribing)as a vehicle for promotingmore widespread acceptance of costsavinggeneric drugs. In calling for thecreation of "a national, uniform standardfor electronic prescribing," a spokesmanfor the Pharmaceutical Care ManagementAssociation (PCMA) toldCongress that e-prescribing "has greatpotential to improve quality and promotethe use of generic alternatives."

The problem, however, is that "apatchwork of varying state e-prescribinglaws—in addition to the new e-prescribingregulations contained in the MedicareModernization Act—have createdsometimes conflicting and duplicativerules," PCMA President Mark Merrittsaid. "The adoption of a national, uniformstandard for e-prescribing lawswould encourage physicians to prescribegenerics over brands wheneverclinically appropriate," Merritt toldCongress.