Monday 25 February 2019

Guidelines For Pharmaceutical Reference Based Pricing

By Douglas Meyer


Given the high cost of health care services and products, reference-based pricing is an interesting idea. However, there are many things to consider before implementation. The main reason this concept has gained a lot of attention is the fact it provides a solution to the price variation of health services and products. Pharmaceutical reference based pricing is a broad topic that needs to be studied carefully.

Insurers determine price limits on various medical services and supplies which have similar features but vary widely when it comes to costs. Insurance companies factor in the minimal, average and maximum prices of a specific class of therapeutic diagnostics, drugs, and procedures. In simple terms, patients co-pay affordable rates for products and services charged below the price references. In instances when services and supplies are expensive patients pay the full amount of the difference calculated between the reference price and actual price of the product.

Reference-based pricing is not exceptional to challenges. In order to enjoy the many benefits this model offers, companies must spend a reasonable amount on customized support, ongoing education and communication. Employers need to educate their staff on how the process works and the importance of conducting their due diligence before selecting a service administrator.

Reference-based price model is not effective in every location. Some providers lack the knowledge and expertise of this approach which can cause inconveniences and lead to stress for individuals in need of affordable health care services and products. It is important for employers to understand location limitations and consult their providers to ensure the right measures are followed to make the process successful.

For the approach to be successful, employers need to define a process. They also need to educate their employees on how to utilize the model. There is a possibility of receiving balance-billed issues even after a claim has been settled in the right process is not followed. Most companies coordinate with insurers to create a cost defining systems and legal service to settle price disputes, but the procedure is not as easy as it sounds.

Remember reference-based pricing is suitable for high-priced medication services and supplies. One thing employers should note is this costing method is not provided by all insurance providers. It is upon you as an employer to research the market to locate providers willing to provide the best price referencing for medical care. You will be overwhelmed at the beginning, but if you consider the necessary factors you will have peace of mind your health needs and those of employees are catered for.

Another factor to think of is a reimbursement method that suits your company. You can choose between defined contribution and defined contribution with negotiation. In defined contribution, you work hand in hand with an insurer to determine prices. Defined contribution with negotiation gives third-party administrators to define prices. However, they negotiate balance billed for prices considered too expensive until they come to an agreement with the provider.

Pricing model or strategies and stop-loss methods affect reference-based pricing in various ways. That is why it is critical to consider these factor prior to investing in medical price referencing. The key to enjoying numerous benefits is investing in training, communication and quality personal support.




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