Drug costs now account for 15% of total medical expense in workers comp, a percentage that has grown dramatically over the last few years. My firm has conducted the only survey of payers focused on prescription drug management in workers comp, and we're in the midst of the fifth annual survey.

This year's survey is sponsored by Cypress Care, marking the third consecutive year of their support.

Early findings (subject to change) include:

• Costs for some payers have stabilized
• Utilization continues to be the main cost driver
• There is an increasing recognition of the importance, and potential impact, of clinical management programs

If you are with a workers comp payer and interested in participating in the survey, email infoAThealthstrategyassocDOTcom. Respondents receive a comprehensive, detailed Survey report.

Summaries of the previous four Surveys are available here.