Eckerd Health Services - Brief Article

Drug Cost Management Report, July, 2002

* Eckerd Health Services (EHS) is now offering a line of disease management programs in partnership with McKesson Health Solutions. The new programs--called EHS CareEnhance programs--address patients with asthma, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure and diabetes. Components of the new DM programs include: covered population diagnostics; evidence-based practice guidelines; collaborative practice models to include physician support-service providers; self-management education; process and outcomes measurement, evaluation, and management; and a routine feedback loop.

Call centers will offer members protocol-based interventions including nurse assessments, formal education modules, written support materials and online information. McKesson Health Solutions' disease management programs have resulted in impressive results for its clients, including a 50% reduction in hospitalizations, a 31% reduction in emergency department visits and a 23% reduction in outpatient facility visits. Information: Scott Anderson, (314) 719-2506.