Updated Report on Medicaid Preferred Drug Lists Published by SRWA

Pennsylvania Consulting Firm Announces the Release of Subscription-based SRWA Report© Updates on Medicaid Preferred Drug Lists

DOWNINGTOWN, PA (PRWEB) January 17, 2004 ---S. R. Ware Associates, Inc. (SRWA) announces the publication of a new and comprehensive subscription-based report update on Medicaid preferred drug lists (PDL). This update is the eighth report in the SRWA Report© series and is the most detailed and comprehensive analysis of PDL. Previous SRWA Reports covered HIV, Medicaid and Ryan White reimbursement, and drug resistance tests in the US market. PDL is the "red hot topic" when pharmaceutical manufacturers discuss how they will market drugs to Medicaid.

The preferred drug list concept represents a new trend that has broad implications for the way all pharmaceuticals are marketed," says Steve Ware, President of SRWA. The majority of states with Medicaid programs has considered or will implement some type of program in 2003 and 2004."

Texas, one of the states with a big impact on Medicaid prescribing, met recently to discuss implementation of a Preferred Drug List and consider which drugs will be included in the first round of drug reviews and classifications. The SRWA Report discusses the Texas situation and other states reaction to the moves to implement a PDL.

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (OBRA 90) prevented state Medicaid programs from establishing exclusionary formularies; however, in the 13 years since its implementation, prescription drug costs and the number entitled to receive care have escalated to the point that many states are considering reduced benefits. To rein-in run away prescription drug costs, Medicaid programs have established preferred drug lists. These de facto formularies encourage physicians to prescribe the preferred drug" rather than more costly alternatives. Any drug not selected as preferred" is usually placed on a restricted status or requires prior authorization.

SRWAs new report is important for pharmaceutical companies because it:
•    Alerts field and office staff to upcoming therapeutic class reviews, which is vital to long-term planning,
•    Allows for the efficient use of knowledge and enhances communication and goal setting,
•    Is a cost effective and inexpensive first-class reference, unique to the industry,
•    Contains alerts and analyses about exempt classes such as mental health drugs,
•    Has an online password protected version (free!) that enables field personnel to instantly access data while on the road, and
•    Has a comprehensive bibliography of almost 200 references.

This is an innovative concept," says Ware. Targeted reports can enhance the value of new and established products as well as the value of the team managing the process."

The eighth and ninth additions to the SRWA Report series are due to be released on January and April 15. These updates will cover Medicaid managed care and state drug prescription drug programs. Contact SRWA for more information.

About The SRWA Report©
The SRWA Report is available from S. R. Ware Associates, Inc. as a single comprehensive report or as a subscriber-based report with quarterly updates. To find out more about SRWA concepts, cost, and delivery times, call 610-321-6191 or e-mail SRWA info@srwa.net

About S. R. Ware Associates, Inc.
S. R. Ware Associates, Inc. (SRWA) opened its doors in 1995 as a contract consultant group focused on pre- and post-launch pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or laboratory products requiring approval from Medicaid, Medicare, or other entities. The companys prime focus is on marketing and market research, but also conducts sales and management training. SRWA President and founder Steve Ware is a 25-year veteran of pharmaceutical sales, market research, knowledge management, and opinion leader development. SRWA draws upon a cadre of experienced associates with expertise in lobbying, sales management, advocacy, and a variety of therapeutic areas.

More information about SRWA is available by visiting http://www.srwa.net.
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