OBJECTIVES: This study explored consumers' perceptions of four drug-management strategies (DMSs): formularies, generic substitution, drug co payments, and prior authorization. Study objectives were to examine consumers' awareness of DMSs, beliefs and attitudes toward DMSs, and motivation to seek information about DMSs, and to describe the importance of these strategies in consumers' decisions to choose a managed care organization (MCO). DESIGN: The study was a cross sectional mail survey study. The study targeted residents of West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland between the ages of 25-65 who are members of MCOs. RESULTS: A final sample of 1,441 participants received the questionnaire. A total of 303 (21.4%) completed responses were obtained. Results indicated that most respondents were unaware of formularies and prior authorization in their health plans. Respondents held slightly positive attitudes toward drug copayments and generic substitution, whereas their attitudes toward formularies and prior authorization were slightly negative. Respondents were slightly motivated to seek information about DMSs. All four strategies seemed important in consumers' decisions to choose or leave an MCO.