Regence BlueShield's mandatory data submission requirement for manufacturers: A progress report

It has been 21/2 years since Regence BlueShield of Seattle mandated that ph armaceutical manufacturers submit outcomes modeling data-both medical and c ost outcomes-for all drugs being considered for formulary inclusion. Submis sion developers Dr. Fullerton and Dr. Sullivan state that the process has b een well accepted by the manufacturers and that it has resulted in the rece ipt of higher quality information, and more timely and relevant information upon which to base formulary decisions. The process has also reduced clini cal pharmacy staff time by 40%. Dr. Fullerton and Dr. Sullivan discuss thei r early experiences with the mandated submission process as well as their v ision of the next steps in the evolution of this innovative approach to dru g decision-making.