Matrix Models as an Instrument to Support Generic Medicine Prescribing

Abstract

European countries have introduced various incentives to encourage physicians to prescribe generic medicines. This article aims to discuss matrix models, that is, decision tools to inform medicine prescribing in a transparent and reproducible way, and assess their implications for generic medicine use. To date, two types of matrix models, the System of Objectified Judgement Analysis and InforMatrix, have been introduced in the Netherlands; and the Safe Therapeutic Economic Pharmaceutical Selection (STEPSelect) method has been implemented in Northern Ireland. These matrix models in essence identify the most appropriate medicine to prescribe, taking into account clinically relevant and evidence-based selection criteria such as safety, efficacy, ease of use, tolerability, applicability and costs. As a result, matrix models are generally well accepted by both physicians and pharmacists. Generic medicines tend to receive favourable scores in matrix models because they have the same quality, safety and efficacy as originator medicines, but have a lower cost. In addition, the application of matrix models is estimated to generate substantial savings through, among other things, the increased prescribing of generic medicines. Future studies need to quantify the impact of matrix models on generic medicine prescribing rates.