Evaluation of a prior authorization policy on compliance with VA pharmacy benefits management services recommendations for antipsychotic selection

Abstract Introduction: A previous study at Veterans Affairs (VA) Eastern Colorado Health Care System revealed low rates of compliance with VA Pharmacy Benefits Management Services recommendations for antipsychotic selection in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. As a result, formulary restrictions of second-line antipsychotics were implemented. Since April 2013, new starts of second-line antipsychotic agents require a prior authorization drug review. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of the prior authorization process on compliance with the VA criteria for prescribing aripiprazole, olanzapine, and ziprasidone. The primary objective was to compare compliance rates with VA antipsychotic selection criteria preimplementation and postimplementation of the prior authorization drug review policy. Methods: Single center, retrospective chart review of patients receiving aripiprazole, olanzapine, and ziprasidone. A report of all patients receiving a prescription for the above 3 agent...