Influencing choice of branded or generic statins by older adults in the USA

Abstract

Objective This study examines whether information gained from face-to-face contact with health professionals has an influence on switching between branded and generic statins, a class of drugs primarily used by older adults. Methods Data from five panels of the Medical Expenditure Panel Study covering 2006–2011 are used to estimate multivariate logistic regression models examining whether statin switching is influenced by the patient-centred medical home and type of pharmaceutical drug vendor. Key findings Provider consultation is important in consumer choice. Older adults who report their physician's office is ‘patient-centred’ are more than twice as likely to make a generic to branded switch. Switching from branded to generic statins is 50% more likely when prescriptions are filled at a drugstore, 80% more likely when filling at another type of retail outlet and more than twice as likely when filling at a hospital-based clinic (all places where it is possible to speak with a pharmacist in person) rather than filling through mail order or online. Free samples, dosage and type of insurance coverage also influence switching behaviour. Conclusions Communication between health providers and patients is an important part of the decision to switch between different statin formulations.