Federally Qualified Health Center Patients and Generic Drug Discount Programs

This study evaluates the factors associated with utilization of generic drug discount program (GDDP) among federally qualified health center (FQHC) patients in Houston, Texas. A survey to determine awareness and use of GDDP was administered to 304 patients at three FQHCs in Houston, Texas. Patients at FQHCs treated with courtesy by pharmacy staff (OR: 14.1, 95% CI: 7.9-25.2), patients with a perception of positive impact of GDDP on their health (OR: 7.6, 95% CI: 4.5-12.7), those who found GDDP easy to use (OR: 6.6, 95% CI: 3.8-11.6), were more likely to utilize GDDP. Approximately 56% of the participants had utilized the GDDP at least once in the past 12 months. Approximately 85% of participants indicated that they would use GDDP if recommended by a physician. It is possible for FQHCs to be good venues for increasing awareness and utilization of GDDP.