Generic Select
Blue Cross of California
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Geogia
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Missouri
Blue Cross of California, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Missouri launched GenericSelect™ to reduce escalating prescription drug costs without compromising the quality of care. The program is designed to increase consumers' use of safe, effective and FDA-approved generic drugs. Since Blue Cross of California first introduced the program in December 2002, it has seen a 19 percent increase in the use of generics, a practice that can help control health care costs. A simple, 1 percent increase in generic drugs for the selected classes in this program saves as much as $5 million a year.
Program Elements
- GenericSelect currently targets drugs used to treat depression, high cholesterol, acid reflux, high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis pain. The list of GenericSelect drugs are among the most commonly prescribed medications available, accounting for 35 percent of prescription expenditures.
- The drugs covered by the GenericSelect program were chosen because they continue to provide significant medical value and are considered by physicians and pharmacists to be just as safe and effective as their brand name counterparts.
- As the FDA continues to approve new generic medications, other drugs may be added.
Program Results
- Since Blue Cross of California first introduced the program in December 2002, it has seen an 18 percent increase in the use of generics, a practice that can help control healthcare costs.
- GenericSelect teaches consumers about the safety and effectiveness of generic drugs and encourages doctors to prescribe them when appropriate.
- Members can have the co-pay for their first prescription waived or discounted up to $10.
- The program provides doctors and pharmacists with information about the benefits and cost-effectiveness of generic drugs.
Contact
Laurie Amirpoor, Staff VP, Nat’l Programs, 818-234-4823, laurie.amirpoor@wellpoint.com
