The Internet is making it easier than ever for consumers to become educated about topics and to purchase goods and services online. Health care websites are viewed by millions of Americans each day in search of specific and general health information.

Many PBMs now provide consumer level information through their websites. At a minimum, most PBM websites allow patients to request mail service prescription refills online. In addition to refill service, plan members can often track their orders and confirm ship dates. Some PBMs even allow plan members to order over-the-counter drugs and other traditional retail pharmacy products online. These consumer services are designed to improve access to mail order pharmacy services and to improve patient satisfaction.

Some PBMs have taken the lead by adding information-based services such as patient drug histories and information about medical conditions and treatment availability to their websites. Access to patient-specific information is always password protected to maintain confidentiality. Access to general health-related information and drug/disease information is commonly maintained through links to the information providers' websites. The intent of services is to help patients take an active role in their health care.

It is important to remember that plan sponsors have a responsibility to protect the confidentiality of their plan members visiting PBM websites for information and services. Plan sponsors have a stake in understanding the information being captured about their members and how it is used by their PBMs. Although PBMI is not aware of any issues that exist with specific PBMs at this time, be sure to review the "Use of Information" page located on most PBM websites.

In addition to providing consumer-oriented information, many PBMs also provide their clients with value-added information services. One example that particularly stands out is Caremark's New Drug Review pages. These pages provide important information plan sponsors need to know about new drugs. This information provides a good general understanding of the benefits of new drugs coming to market and can be used to help make coverage decisions about these drugs.

PBMs are hopeful that plan sponsors and consumers will see these expanded website offerings as a value-added service. Both businesses and consumers have embraced Internet technology as a time and money saving resource. Visit your PBM's website soon and while you are at it, visit the other PBMs' websites, too.