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Prescribing system links with Wal-Mart

Users of the Epocrates clinical decision support tool now have access to Wal-Mart's list of $4 generic prescriptions.

The Epocrates tool can be used on handheld devices to look up medication information, including dosage and possible dangerous interactions. A recent Epocrates survey found most users were concerned that patients were not complying with their prescriptions due to the costs of filling them.

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Cigna offers podcasts

A new line of downloadable audio broadcasts is Cigna's latest effort in trying to reach members with messages of prevention and how to be what it calls a wise consumer.

The Philadelphia-based insurer Feb. 19 unveiled a new library of podcasts produced by Healthwise, a nonprofit organization based in Boise, Idaho, that produces health information.

Along with presentations on prevention and treatment, the library of podcasts includes "Work In Partnership With Your Doctor," "Finding a Doctor Who Will be a Partner" and "Skills for Making Wise Health Decisions."

The podcasts are available to Cigna members only.

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Consumers not swayed by "top doc" rankings

Top-doctor lists published annually in various metropolitan magazines receive a lot of media hype, but most consumers say they are skeptical about how those lists are compiled and do not use them to choose a doctor.

However, more than 67% of those responding to a study conducted by The Melior Group, a Philadelphia-based research and consulting firm, say they like the idea of using a medical practice that has access to top doctors, even if the physician they see is not named on the list. The group called this the "top doctor effect."

The Melior Group found 38% of study respondents choose a doctor through another physician's recommendation and 30% by whether the doctor accepts their insurance.

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