Viewpoint: Yes, HMOs and insurance providers have the right to require the substitution of generic drugs for name-brand drugs, as generic drugs have been scientifically proven as safe and effective.

Viewpoint: No, HMOs and insurance providers do not have the right to require the substitution of generic drugs for name-brand drugs. Even if the active ingredients are the same, differences in the inactive ingredients might have a significant effect on some patients.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and many pharmacists, low-cost generic drugs are as safe and effective as name-brand drugs. As part of its Center for...