A Descriptive Evaluation of Prescriber Perceptions and Experience With Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Programs in an Integrated Health Care System.

Objective: To assess prescriber perceptions and experience with risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) programs in an integrated health care delivery system.

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was e-mailed to eligible health care prescribers if they prescribed at least 1 selected REMS-related product within 6 months spanning January 1 to June 30, 2013; were an active employee of Kaiser Permanente Southern California; and had an active " kp.org " e-mail address. Descriptive analyses were conducted on the survey responses.

Results: Three hundred sixty-four respondents (34%) completed the online survey. The majority were primary care prescribers (65%) versus nonprimary prescribers. The majority of primary care, oncologist, and specialist prescribers responded that REMS was meaningful, improved patient safety, and made an impact on their patient interactions. The majority of surgeons and pain management prescribers responded that REMS was not meaningful, did not improve safety for the patients, or did not impact their interactions with their patients. Over 50% of prescribers counseled their patients or had another health care team member discuss the risks and benefits of these REMS-related medications; medication guides or other printed literature was not provided as much.

Conclusion: The results from the survey suggest that prescriber specialty has an impact on the perceived value of the REMS program and the perceived need to counsel patients regarding medications with REMS programs.