Express Scripts launches tool to predict, prevent non-adherence

Pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts Inc. (NASDAQ:ESRX) launched a tool to improve drug adherence by identifying patients who are most likely to stop taking their medication. The tool, called ScreenRx, sorts through pharmacy claims data on more than 400 factors about the patient, physician, disease and therapy that are known to play a role in patient adherence. The tool also identifies the likely reason for non-adherence so interventions can be better targeted to improve compliance.

Express Scripts said pilot programs have shown that 69% of non-adherence cases are due to forgetfulness and procrastination, while about 16% are due to cost and 15% to clinical questions or concerns about the drug or disease. Patients that ScreenRx identifies as at risk for non-adherence due to forgetfulness may receive daily alerts or auto prescription renewals, for example. Express Scripts said the ScreenRx results are available immediately. Employers or plan sponsors will pay for the tool on a per member or per year basis. ...