Physicians' perceptions about generic medications in Lebanon -

Abstract

Rising pharmaceutical costs constitute a public concern due to their multidimensional impact on the society. These costs influence the economy, productivity, health and quality of life in a society. Substitution of brand medications with cheaper generics has been implemented in many countries in an attempt to reduce pharmaceutical costs and to improve healthcare coverage for patients. In light of the pro-generic medication policies in many countries around the world, extensive research has been conducted to assess the factors that are associated with physician prescribing behavior. This project attempts to study Lebanese physicians’ prescribing behavior of generic medications. This study has employed an online questionnaire that was sent by email to a sample of physicians registered in the Order of Physicians in Lebanon. The answers were analyzed using quantitative statistical analysis and Structural Equation Model. The main objective of this study is to research and analyze the relationships among attitude, perception and prescribing behavior of physicians in Lebanon regarding generic medications. The results of this study aim to enhance the understanding of the circumstances surrounding generic medication prescribing. This result could in turn help policymakers implement pro-generic policies more effectively and ultimately optimize pharmaceutical expenditure.