A Decade of Declining Utilization, Shifting Drug Mix, and Emerging Cost Pressures
This report examines long-term trends in prescription drug utilization and payments within Delaware’s workers’ compensation system over the 2012–2022 period. Using data reported through the Delaware Medical Data Call, the analysis explores changes in drug usage, costs, prescribing patterns, and the mix of brand, generic, and opioid prescriptions.
By reviewing a decade of experience, the report provides insight into how legislative reforms, shifts in medical practice, and evolving treatment approaches have influenced prescription drug activity and costs. These findings help stakeholders better understand the role of prescription drugs within overall medical spending and how that role has changed over time.
6.8%
Percentage prescription drugs accounted for among total workers’ compensation medical payments in Delaware in service year 2022.
What’s in the report
- Both utilization and payments for prescription drugs decreased consistently, reflecting changes in treatment patterns and cost controls.
- As key brand-name drugs lost patent protection, increased generic utilization contributed to lower overall drug costs.
- Claims involving opioid prescriptions declined materially, aligning with broader efforts to address opioid use and reduce related risks.