Cost-Effectiveness of Infant Formula Rebate Systems in the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

摘要

The report examines the most cost-effective means for procuring infant formula for the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). It summarizes the current requirements for cost containment systems and describes the existing systems and the associated rebate savings by type. This is followed by a discussion of the factors thought to affect the size of infant formula rebates. These factors include: the size of the State's WIC infant caseload, the type of rebate contract, and the date that the agreement was signed. Next the report examines alternatives to the current system, nationwide rebate systems, regional rebate systems, and public or nonprofit production of infant formula. The report concludes that alternatives to the current rebate system are not warranted at this point.