RED BOOK™ Database & ReadyPrice FAQs

RED BOOK for Windows and ReadyPrice are only available as Windows applications on CD-ROM. The RED BOOK Database is provided as ASCII flat file, and can be delivered via CD-ROM or secure internet download.

Q2: What is the advantage of receiving flat files versus a Windows software application?

The flat files allow for the most flexibility when it comes to integration into the facilities current system. Flat file data can be integrated into a database or application of the customer's choice. Customers have the ability to create their own queries and reports.

The Windows-based applications require no database administration experience or development/IT work. The applications contain predefined search mechanisms and require little maintenance.

Q3: Do the flat files and Windows applications contain the same data?

The flat files contain active and inactive products. The Windows applications contain only active products.

Q4: How often is the data updated?

Data is updated in the Micromedex data repository on a daily basis. Customers have a choice regarding how often they receive data updates:

• RED BOOK for Windows is available in annual or quarterly update frequencies.
• ReadyPrice is updated quarterly and monthly.
• The RED BOOK Flat Files are available in annual, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily update frequencies.

Q5: Where does the RED BOOK database pricing information come from?

The manufacturers provide the pricing information in the database. Please see the The Healthcare business of Thomson Reuters Pricing Policy for more information.

Q6: If only a few data elements in the database are needed, can only those data elements be purchased?

We do not have special pricing for "trimmed down" or customized databases. Four different flat file products exist to meet varying customer needs. Because these files come as ASCII fields of data, customers can easily configure the data to utilize only those fields they are specifically interested in.

Q7: Is J-Code information included in your products?

The J-Code relational table is included in the Expanded and Extra extracts. In addition, J-Codes are displayed within the ReadyPrice application. Customers interested in more detailed J-Code information, such as mean price, should purchase the J-Code Aggregate file which is sold separately.

Q8: What day of the week will product updates be available?

The monthly deliverables are available via secure internet download and CD-ROM the first of each month. Weekly downloads are available on each Monday. Quarterly products are delivered the first week of March, June, September, and December. Yearly products are delivered the first of January.

Q9: Do the RED BOOK products offer any historical pricing information?

The Expanded and Extra extracts provide the current pricing as well as the previous two previous price entries. ReadyPrice contains he current AWP, but also contains the past ten pricing changes for each individual product.

Knowledge when you need it most.™