There are a variety of contributing factors to discuss with fact that 31% of prescriptions written by doctors and nurses are never filled. A few of these factors include access to a pharmacy, disbelief in the prescribers prognosis, a false sense that nothing is wrong because they don’t show symptoms, and the cost of the medications themselves. The highlighted reason for today’s discussion has to do with the costs associated with the medicines. In 2009, Americans filled 3.68 billion prescriptions. This is a very large number, but whats most concerning is the additional 1.2 billion prescriptions that weren’t filled. Non-compliance to the doctors orders is estimated to cost the lives of 125,000 people not to mention almost $300 billion in additional medical costs annually. These stats are overwhelming to fully comprehend, and the root cause often to blame goes … Continue reading
It is no doubt that over the last week or two, you’ve read articles, watched t.v., or listened to the radio where Healthcare Reform was the main topic. No matter what side of the fence your on, the bill has passed, and so it is important to understand how it will affect you over the coming years. This week, we’ll take a look at how Medicare Part D or Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage will be affected. Here is the breakdown: In 2010, Medicare Part D participants who reach the coverage gap (otherwise known as the doughnut hole) will receive a $250 rebate In 2011, Medicare Part D individuals who reach the coverage gap will receive a 50% discount on brand name drugs, but not until they reach the coverage gap. Brand name drugs will be subsidized slightly more each year … Continue reading
