Dispense as Written (DAW)

The Dispense as Written (DAW) Code is a code transmitted with the claim that indicates special circumstances. HMSA accepts any of the following DAW codes. DAW codes 0, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 may affect pricing. Pharmacies will be reimbursed at the brand contracted rate for claims submitted with DAW values of 1 or 2.

DAW 0 No product selection indicated
DAW 1 Substitution not allowed by prescriber
DAW 2 Substitution allowed – patient requested product dispensed
DAW 3 Substitution allowed – pharmacy requested product dispensed
DAW 4 Substitution allowed – generic drug not in stock
DAW 5 Substitution allowed – brand drug dispensed as generic
DAW 6 Undefined (not in general use; reserved for future use)
DAW 7 Substitution not allowed – brand drug mandated by law/regulation
DAW 8 Substitution not allowed – generic drug not available in marketplace
DAW 9 Undefined (not in general use, reserved for future use)

Revision History

Date Nature of Revision
08/03/2026

Migrated to new platform.