Drug education. Moving ahead the fourth year

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Public Health Policy
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1990 mandated state-wide drug utilization review (DUR) programs for outpatient medications.
• Medical Assistance programs are central to ensuring access to necessary prescription drugs for eligible populations.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of these mandated programs is crucial for public health and healthcare system optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of Pennsylvania's drug utilization review program.
• To outline the activities undertaken by the State Society's Center for Professional Drug Education and Information.
• To provide insights into the implementation of federal mandates at the state level.

Main Methods:

• This study is the second part of a series examining state-level DUR program activities.
• It focuses on the specific case of Pennsylvania's program implementation and outcomes.
• The methodology involves an analysis of program activities and their perceived effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Pennsylvania's drug utilization review program was implemented following the OBRA 1990 mandate.
• The State Society's Center for Professional Drug Education and Information played a key role in program activities.
• The effectiveness of the program is discussed within the context of its operational activities.

Conclusions:

• State-level drug utilization review programs are essential for managing outpatient medications under Medical Assistance.
• The Pennsylvania program's activities provide a model for other states implementing similar initiatives.
• Ongoing evaluation of DUR programs is necessary to ensure optimal patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization.