This week the Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report highlighted a study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association on the impact of the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit.Two key findings of the study indicated that the overall percentage of seniors who skipped taking medications due to cost issues has decreased since the January 2006 implementation of the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit. However, the study also showed that there has been no improvement with regard to skipping pills among the sickest participants.
Researchers also found that 60% were unaware their plans had the so-called "doughnut hole" coverage gap. "The new Medicare Part D program provides billions of dollars in new benefits for seniors, but also imposes complex and high levels of cost-sharing," Hsu said in a statement, adding, "The study shows that many seniors have trouble understanding these benefits and that this poor knowledge limits their ability to manage their medication needs and costs" (Dunham, Reuters, 4/22).
For more information about the study please click HERE to visit the Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report or HERE to visit the abstract of the study at the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Comments Please: How have the costs of prescription drugs impacted your life or the lives of your family members?
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