Prescription drug benefits in a managed care plan: balancing quality and costs

As health care expenditures increase, managed care plans are placing increasing scrutiny on quality of care and cost issues. If a managed care prescription drug benefit program is well designed, however, pharmaceuticals can help decrease the use of other health care services. The result is a healthier bottom line that balances quality and costs. Ultimately, a sound drug benefit in a managed care program will reduce the need for surgical interventions, shorten or eliminate hospital stays, improve overall quality of life, and increase productivity.