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Information Technology, Improved Access, and Use of Prescription Drugs

Author

Listed:
  • Petri Bockerman

    (University of Jyvaskyla, Labour Institute for Economic Research LABORE and IZA Institute of Labor Economics)

  • Mika Kortelainen

    (University of Turku and VATT Institute for Economic Research)

  • Liisa T. Laine

    (University of Missouri)

  • Mikko Nurminen

    (The Social Insurance Institution of Finland)

  • Tanja Saxell

    (VATT Institute for Economic Research and Helsinki GSE)

Abstract

We estimate the effects of information technology designed to improve access to medication while limiting overuse. We focus on benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed and effective but addictive medications. We study the staggered rollout of a nationwide electronic prescribing system over four years in Finland and use population-wide, individual-level administrative data sets. We find an increase in benzodiazepine use on average due to increased prescription renewals. The effect is most pronounced among younger patients. We find little evidence of improvement in their general health outcomes but observe substantial increases in diagnoses of prescription drug abuse disorders and poisonings. Our results show robust evidence that easier access may lead to medication overuse.

Suggested Citation

  • Petri Bockerman & Mika Kortelainen & Liisa T. Laine & Mikko Nurminen & Tanja Saxell, 2023. "Information Technology, Improved Access, and Use of Prescription Drugs," Working Papers 2301, Department of Economics, University of Missouri.
    • Handle: RePEc:umc:wpaper:2301
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Information technology; electronic prescribing; medication access; overuse; repeat prescribing;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H51 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Government Expenditures and Health
    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health

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