Using Generic Drugs to Reduce the Cost of Care

Course overview

Generic drugs have been lifesaving for many Americans faced with dire financial situations and no comprehensive medical coverage. On average, a brand-name drug costs at least three or four times the price of a generic drug. For someone who takes multiple drugs every day, the costs can be prohibitive. Some prescribers do not prescribe generics out of habit or out of concern that the generic may not be safe or effective. In some cases, prescribers have no idea that generic counterparts exist and consequently never bother to write it on the prescription. APNs with prescriptive authority must be informed about the use of generic drugs. Patients may also be reluctant to use generic drugs, and RNs, pharmacists, and technicians play a critical role in educating them about generic drug usage.