ScriptSwitch helps PCTs meet statin targets

Prescribing software can help to remind GPs to opt for cheaper generic drugs when they treat patients with high cholesterol, according to a new survey.

The software supplier, ScriptSwitch, surveyed its 62 clients following the publication of national prescribing indication results for statins, drugs to lower cholesterol levels in people with or at risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Department of Health released the results from the Institute for Innovation and Improvement showing that around £85m could be saved if cheaper generic statins were used more routinely.

The cost of the drugs varies markedly depending on whether they are 'branded' or cheaper - but equally effective - generic versions. The institute’s research measured the percentage of prescriptions written for the generic drugs, simvastatin, used to control elevated cholesterol, and pravastatin, used to lower cholesterol.

ScriptSwitch’s survey found that 78% of PCTs using its system performed better than the national average for generic statin prescribing – with one third performing in the top 25% in the country.

ScriptSwitch’s head of medicines management, Martyn Carroll, told E-Health Insider Primary Care: “These findings are a clear indication that the ScriptSwitch system is helping PCTs to improve care whilst at the same time saving money which can be reinvested in improving other services.”

Carroll said that if GPs chose the low cost option when prescribing statin drugs, they could experience considerable savings.

“The ScriptSwitch application can save PCTs unnecessary costs. Obviously, the GP has the final choice but the system is designed to help them make the best possible prescribing decision using the most relevant and accurate information available. This includes offering NHS disseminated information and low cost alternatives to the drug they have selected. This latest survey shows we have freed up almost £660,000 for our clients.”

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NHS could save millions through smarter prescribing of cholesterol-busting drugs