Category: Federal Forum Posters
Purpose: The impact of the prior authorization drug request (PADR) requirement has been evaluated in a variety of capacities. PADRs have been shown to promote appropriate use, encourage cost savings, and improve patient safety. The current literature suggests mixed effects on medication adherence. The focus of the study is to determine the effects of the PADR requirement across multiple medications within the veteran population. The objective of the study is to examine the influence of a PADR requirement on medication adherence to specific medications before and after the removal of a PADR.
Methods: A retrospective chart review using the Veterans Affairs Computerized Patient Record System will be conducted to identify patients who received a medication (i.e. tamsulosin, losartan, valsartan, duloxetine, or pioglitazone) prior to or after the removal of a PADR requirement. The time-frame of data collection for each identified medication will be based upon three phases that will span 2.5 years. The first phase will be one year prior to PADR removal. The second phase will be a 6-month wash-out period. The third phase will continue one year after the wash-out period. From the identified patients, the following data will be collected: age, gender, race, number of active medication at initial dispense, number of healthcare visits, medication dispensation information, and copayment status during the study period. The proportion of days covered (PDC) measure will be used to evaluate medication adherence. The primary endpoint will be the average total PDC of all medications before and after the removal of a PADR requirement. The secondary endpoints will be the average PDC for each medication, percentage of veterans who were classified as adherent (PDC ≥ 80%), characterization of healthcare utilization, and identification of risk factors that may influence adherence.
Results: Not applicable
Conclusion: Not applicable
Sukdong Lee
– PGY2 Drug Information Resident, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC133 Views