What must be included on the face of a prescription for a brand medication under the Medicaid Mandatory Generic Program?

In the context of the Medicaid Mandatory Generic Program, the inclusion of a prior authorization number and the Dispense As Written (DAW) indication on the face of a prescription for a brand medication is essential. This requirement stems from the program's intent to encourage the use of generic medications while recognizing scenarios where a brand medication may be necessary.

The prior authorization number signifies that the prescriber has completed the necessary steps to justify the use of a brand name over its generic counterpart, thus ensuring that Medicaid funds are used responsibly. The DAW indication explicitly instructs the pharmacy on whether to dispense the brand name medication as directed by the prescriber, which is crucial for compliance with Medicaid regulations and ensuring that patients receive the intended medication.

Including these elements on the prescription helps streamline the process for both the pharmacy and the state’s Medicaid program, allowing for efficient processing and reimbursement while maintaining regulatory compliance.