-April 15, 2008
In collaboration with WellPoint Inc., the FDA has launched one of the first-time drug-surveillance systems.
WellPoint Inc. is reportedly the nation’s largest insurer and the new system has been created to systematically scan patient information to look for hidden problems with the drugs being prescribed.
Problems with Current Tracking System
Until the introduction of the new system, the FDA’s monitoring process has been criticized for being slow and full of glitches.
Many believe that the current tracking system has contributed to the recent attacks made on the agency for failing to protect consumers from harmful medications.
Drug Recalls Provoke New System
According to researchers, a big wake up call for the FDA was the recall of several popular drugs like Vioxx, Zyprexa, and Avandia.
This fall the government finally passed a law that forced the agency to set up a new computerized system that would quickly and efficiently scan for problems in medications before they are distributed.
The FDA has planned to contract with various insurers, such as WellPoint Inc., to make use of their databases.
(Source: The Wall Street Journal)
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