Data-driven identification of co-morbidities associated with rheumatoid arthritis in a large US health plan claims database.

Background: In drug development, it is important to have an understanding of the full spectrum of co-morbidities to be expected in the group of patients with the disease of interest. It is usually a challenge to identify the less common events associated with the target disease, even if these events are severe. The purpose of this study is to identify co-morbidities associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as compared with a control group, using a large health care database.

Evaluation of a depression health management program to improve outcomes in first or recurrent episode depression.

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of telephone counseling and educational materials on medication adherence and persistency among members with newly diagnosed depression enrolled in a pharmacy benefit management-sponsored disease management program.

Study Design: Longitudinal cohort observation.

Methods: The study population comprised 505 members with a new or recurrent episode of depression who consented and enrolled in a depression disease management program.