DAW Codes

DAW

Dispense as Written

What are DAW Codes used for?

- Nationally recognized code set that is transmitted with pharmacy claim to insurer/third-party payer.

* Explains if a special circumstance exists that affects product selection.

DAW 0

- No product selection preferred.

- CAN substitute with generic equivalent.

DAW 1

- Generic substitution is NOT allowed by the prescriber.

- Patient must receive brand-name product.

DAW 2

- Generic substitution is allowed by the prescriber but the patient demands name-brand.

- Patient will most likely pay higher amount.

DAW 3

- Generic substitution is allowed by the prescriber, but the pharmacist determines brand should be dispensed.

- Used when product is available from multiple sources.

DAW 4

- Generic substitution is allowed by the prescriber, but the generic brand is not in stock.

- Used based on the pharmacy's buying habits and inventory not because the generic is unavailable from the market.

DAW 5

- Generic substitution is allowed by the prescriber, but the brand name is dispensed as the generic.

- Happens when there are multiple brands for generic medications.

DAW 6

- Override is required.

- Used for very specific circumstances set forth by the insurance company.

- RARELY USED!

DAW 7

- Generic substitution is NOT allowed as mandated by state law.

- If brand-name drug is written on the prescription, the generic equivalent cannot be dispensed.

DAW 8

- Generic substitution is allowed by the prescriber, but the generic drug is not available in the marketplace.

- Happens when a drug isn't currently manufactured/distributed or is temporarily unavailable.

DAW 9

- Other.

- Reserved and currently not in use.