The applicability of pharmacoeconomic research in decision-making continues to be an issue of critical importance. While some research has examined this issue, studies have consisted of very small sample sizes, prohibiting generalizable conclusions. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to examine how decision-makers in health plans view and use pharmacoeconomic information in a large and geographically diverse population. METHODS: A random sample of 3000 Formulary subscribers who were pharmacists or physicians working in a health care organization (non-institutional) was identified. Subjects were randomized to three different groups of 1000 with a different survey mailed to each group. A notification postcard, reminder postcard, and follow-up survey were sent, for an anticipated response rate of 30%. RESULTS: While data collection is still in progress, analysis of surveys inputted to date (n=241) indicate that respondents represent the majority of states, 66% serve on P&T committees, 78% are pharmacists, and the majority work for HMOs. While 90% of respondents are considering pharmacoeconomic information in their decision-making, 20% rarely or never act upon this information while two-thirds occasionally do. About 25% said that if pharmacoeconomic studies were no longer published, this would have little or no effect on their organization, and 60% said it would have some effect. Respondents identified therapy classes for which pharmacoeconomics is most and least relevant. They identified the value of various sources of pharmacoeconomic information, study types, and specific journals and indicated various barriers to the use of pharmacoeconomic information. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide insight into how to better develop and target pharmacoeconomic information to managed care decision-makers.