What do DAW codes help pharmacies to indicate?

DAW codes, or Dispense as Written codes, are primarily used to specify the preferences for dispensing a medication, particularly distinguishing between brand-name and generic medications. When a prescription is written with a specific DAW code, it indicates whether the pharmacy must dispense the brand-name medication or if it is permissible to substitute a generic version. This is crucial in ensuring that pharmacies follow the prescriber’s intentions regarding the medication’s brand or generic status, which can significantly impact patient outcomes, costs, and insurance reimbursements.

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of brand versus generic dispensing preference. Options related to medication formulation, insurance reimbursement, or medication expiry status do not capture the primary function of DAW codes, which is focused specifically on whether the patient is to receive a brand-name product or if a generic may be substituted. Understanding DAW codes helps pharmacists and pharmacy technicians ensure compliance with both the prescriber's wishes and applicable pharmacy laws.