Articles tagged with Drug Costs
A new study found that disabled Medicare patients under 65 who face cost barriers to medication adherence are more likely to have emergency department visits. The study revealed that 38.3% of patients with severe cost-related non-adherence had at least one ER visit, compared to 27.5% without CRN.
A new report suggests that breaking up the relationship between physicians and drug companies could lead to improved healthcare and cost savings. Researchers from Oregon State University found that avoiding conflicts of interest and replacing industry-funded information with peer-reviewed sources can help physicians make more informed ...
The University of Maryland Medical Center is now offering genetic testing to help doctors determine the best medication for each patient, based on their unique genetic makeup. This personalized medicine initiative aims to improve the quality of care provided to cardiac patients.
The article reports on a major examination of the status of new drugs for rare diseases, which affect 200,000 patients or fewer. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in research and marketing new medicines, driven by factors such as patient advocacy groups, venture capital firms, and government incentives.
A new study proposes a 'Medicare Essential' plan that combines Medicare's hospital, physician, and prescription drug coverage with private supplemental coverage to simplify benefits and lower out-of-pocket costs. The plan aims to save $180 billion over 10 years while improving care for beneficiaries.
A new study from the Oregon Health Insurance Experiment shows Medicaid coverage substantially reduced depression and eliminated catastrophic medical expenditures, increasing diabetes diagnosis and medication use among low-income adults. However, it had no detectable effect on physical health outcomes such as hypertension, high choleste...
The US and other high-income countries struggle to achieve the 'Triple Aim', a goal of better health, care, and lower cost. The article highlights strategies and tactics that can be learned from other countries.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that nearly 30% of women with osteoporosis fail to pick up their bisphosphonate prescriptions within 60 days. The study identified patient and physician characteristics, such as age, emergency department utilization, and prescription medication use, that contribute to nonadherence.
A new study found that approximately half of Tamiflu prescriptions were unused in England during the 2009-10 influenza pandemic. The unused medication represents around 600,000 courses and a significant financial cost to the UK taxpayer.
A new study reveals that Canada is the country least capable of effectively managing its drug pricing regime due to its unique universal healthcare system. The researchers suggest three principles - pragmatism, discipline, and transparency - for developing an effective pricing strategy.
A UCLA study found that heart failure medications recommended by national guidelines are highly cost-effective in saving lives and may also provide savings to the healthcare system. The combination of these medical therapies demonstrated the greatest gains in quality-adjusted life years for heart failure patients.
A national survey of health professionals found that cancer drug shortages disrupt chemotherapy administration, increase costs, and add to the risk of adverse patient outcomes. The survey, conducted by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, reports that 98% of respondents experienced a shortage in the previous year.
The European League Against Rheumatism recommends immediate use of synthetic DMARDs after diagnosis, but they are expensive. The survey found that 26 countries cannot afford biological DMARDs, excluding 320 million people from treatment.
Research finds no significant linear trend pointing to a decline in UK new drug introductions between 1982-2011, contrary to widely-held views. The number of new drugs introduced has fluctuated, with dips followed by surges, indicating an overall slight increase over the past 40 years.
Research shows that asthma sufferers in the UK are putting their lives at risk by relying on short-acting bronchodilators instead of preventive medication. The main reasons for this behaviour include cost and stigma, with many young adults feeling embarrassed to use inhalers in public.
A new Northwestern University study found that US veterans diagnosed with GERD are frequently prescribed high doses of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and kept on the drug for too long. The researchers evaluated over 1,600 patients and found that nearly 25% were given high total daily dose prescriptions.
A study published in Population Health Management found that eliminating co-payments for diabetes-related medications and supplies improved patient self-management of their condition. Nearly 90% of participants reported better disease management after the program's initiation.
A new Pitt study found that generic drug coverage is cost-effective compared to no coverage for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Generic coverage improved health outcomes and reduced medical costs, with savings of $570-$1,312 per year.
Researchers suggest that a small number of cheap generic drugs can treat most non-communicable diseases (NCDs), improving availability in poorer nations. Better selection and sourcing of generics, as well as increased investment and policies, are key to making life-saving medicines affordable to all.
The study found that Medicaid drug selection committees' conflicts of interest (COI) policies are not transparent and vary widely. Current policies often rely on disclosure and self-recusal, but only a small percentage ban certain industry relationships.
Patients attending a family practice clinic will be offered genetic testing to see how they respond to psychiatric medication. The tests, which analyze variations on five genes, can help physicians predict which medications are safe and effective for each patient.
A new study by health economists at the University of York has produced an estimate of the impact on other NHS patients of new and more costly drugs and treatments. The research suggests a refinement of NICE's cost-effectiveness threshold, potentially leading to lower prices for new drugs when value-based pricing is introduced.
Scientists have developed a new and more efficient way to make paliperidone, a widely used medication for severe mental illness, reducing solvent use and increasing yield.
A new study led by UCLA researcher Dr. Derjung Tarn found that a simple training program improved physicians' ability to communicate key facts about prescribed medications, including potential side effects and medication adherence. The intervention resulted in higher ratings from patients on communication about medications.
A new scoring system developed by researchers identifies independent risk factors associated with gastrointestinal bleeding in non-ICU hospital patients. The system enables clinicians to selectively use acid-suppressive medications when needed, saving costs and avoiding side effects.
A new study applies quantitative modeling to genomics, estimating the time and money required to use genomics to cut drug-related adverse outcomes in half. The model suggests a cost of less than $10 billion spread out over approximately 20 years.
Major pharmaceutical companies are losing patents on best-selling drugs, leading to a focus on pairing low costs with high quality and exploring new research partnerships. This shift is raising hopes for new drugs and profits in the industry as it seeks innovative solutions to revitalize sales.
A €26.4 million European public-private partnership, led by the University of Manchester and GlaxoSmithKline, aims to create sustainable pharmaceuticals manufacturing processes using biotechnology. The CHEM21 project will establish a European research hub to develop training packages and provide information on green chemistry.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that combining better physical fitness and statins significantly improves survival in people with unhealthy blood fat or cholesterol levels. Moderate intensity physical activity can be achieved through walking, gardening, and gym classes, making it a feasible option for many middle-aged adul...
A Kaiser Permanente study of 5,216 patients found that those who received automated reminders were 1.6 times more likely to fill prescriptions for cholesterol-lowering statins than those without reminders. The percentage of patients who picked up their prescriptions increased from 26% to 42% after the intervention.
The Canadian premiers' commitment to reduce generic drug prices is a significant change. The government should learn from past attempts and aim for universal public coverage for medications.
A private-market approach to delivering malaria treatments has increased access to care and reduced the use of less effective treatments in Africa. The 'Coca-Cola' model, which uses shops and market stalls to distribute affordable medications, has been shown to broaden the availability of effective therapies.
The AMFm programme has improved access to affordable ACTs in eight countries, with over 155 million doses subsidised between 2010 and 2011. Market share of artemisinin monotherapies decreased in several countries, and private sector QAACT prices fell by up to 80%.
Researchers suggest designing cost-sharing strategies in line with evidence-based screening guidelines to reduce expenditures. They also recommend improving communication about the risks and benefits of treatment, as well as changes to financial incentives for physicians.
A study published in Health Affairs found that only 5.2% of Medicare beneficiaries chose the least-expensive Part D plan that satisfied their medical needs, resulting in an average annual overspend of $368. Researchers recommend educational programs and assistance to help beneficiaries make informed plan choices.
Research from UAlberta finds that overweight and obese children aged 12-19 are 59% more likely to take prescription medication. This trend contributes to higher health-care costs for treating childhood obesity.
A recent editorial highlights the importance of correct inhaler technique for asthma and respiratory conditions, as only a third of medication reaches the lungs when used incorrectly. Healthcare professionals also need training to effectively coach patients.
Cancer drugs are administered sequentially or in combination, creating a virtual monopoly for each drug. Value-based pricing is a potential solution to address the high cost of cancer therapy.
Indiana University chemists have developed a new synthesis of artemisinin, allowing for the production of fully synthetic artemisinin on a gram scale. This breakthrough could help reduce the cost of the life-saving antimalarial drug and increase its availability worldwide.
In 2011, Americans took a record 4.02 billion prescription drugs, with antidepressants and ADHD medicines showing notable increases in sales. The growth of prescriptions is attributed to the rising demand for CNS disorders medications.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against annual screening for ovarian cancer in asymptomatic women due to potential harms. Reduced out-of-pocket expenses can improve medication adherence for chronic conditions, with case management and patient education showing strong evidence.
The public favors treating patients with serious conditions, including cancer, if it reduces burden on carers or offers substantial health benefits. However, the majority oppose a ring-fenced budget for cancer drugs, which would prioritize cancer treatments over other equally serious conditions.
Patients with clopidogrel non-responsiveness had a higher risk of stent thrombosis and acute coronary syndrome. Personalized antiplatelet treatment using platelet function testing shows promise in reducing ischemic events without increasing bleeding risks.
A study found that personalized antiplatelet treatment using platelet function testing improved clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Non-responders to clopidogrel were given higher doses or alternative therapies, reducing stent thrombosis and acute coronary syndrome rates.
Canada faces unpredictable and widespread drug shortages, affecting patient health and healthcare costs. A national approach with mandatory reporting and integrated leadership can minimize the impact of shortages.
A new clinical trial shows that drinking eight ounces of grapefruit juice daily can increase the levels of an anti-cancer drug called sirolimus in patients with incurable cancer. This combination could help patients avoid serious gastrointestinal side effects and reduce medication costs.
Research reveals high percentage of poor-quality antimalarials in Guyana/Suriname, including artesunate monotherapy failures. Basic quality control tests help reduce prevalence of substandard medicines in Amazon Basin Countries
Scientists have developed a method to identify new uses for existing medicines, using 11 factors to pair likely drugs with diseases. The 'Train-Match-Fit-Streamline' approach could lead to repurposing of medicines like Celebrex and hookworm treatment for cancer.
A Harvard researcher has found that using traditional, natural medicines can provide significant economic benefits, with households in Madagascar receiving between $30 and $45 per year. The study suggests that if Americans relied on these remedies, they could save up to 63% of their annual healthcare bill.
Physicians feel responsible for assessing and addressing medication adherence but often rely on simple inquiries about adherence, leaving room for improvement. Non-adherence can lead to poor clinical outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and higher mortality rates.
A new study found that using drug-eluting stents has little relation to patients' predicted risk of restenosis. Reducing unnecessary usage could significantly cut US health costs and prevent complications. The authors suggest incorporating assessment of restenosis risk into regular practice for better-informed decisions.
Researchers developed a silk-based stabilizer that maintains potency of live vaccines and antibiotics even at high storage temperatures. This innovation has the potential to eliminate the need for refrigeration, saving billions in costs and increasing accessibility to third-world populations.
A new article by Brown University researchers reveals that adopting generic drugs was crucial to the success of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPfAR). The program has reduced its annual per person spending on antiretroviral medicines to $300, and now provides treatment to nearly 2 out of 3 individuals in need.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health has released comprehensive reviews of the most effective treatments for alcohol dependence, emphasizing medication and psychosocial therapies. These interventions have been shown to be effective in treating problem alcohol use and concurrent disorders.
Hospitals in Canada can save millions by prescribing the cheapest version of medications for patients, according to a new study. The study found that substituting the least expensive version of proton pump inhibitors, ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers could save taxpayers $1.6 million, $162,000, and $14,000 respectively.
The Aging Brain Care model, developed by Indiana University researchers, aims to deliver better health care to older adults through interdisciplinary care teams and personalized treatment plans. The expanded program is expected to reduce emergency department visits and hospitalizations among Medicare beneficiaries.
A recent Queen's University study found that the cheaper drug for treating wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has a higher risk of causing eye inflammation and vision loss. The research indicates that patients receiving the cheaper drug had a 12 times higher risk of serious eye issues, emphasizing the need for caution in its use.
Developing a new, two-step process could stabilize prices for the raw material essential for making malaria treatment drugs. The improved manufacturing method generates less waste and requires less artemisinin, potentially easing supply problems.
A new tool has been developed to help healthcare professionals make informed decisions about which drugs to include in health care formularies. The tool, consisting of a checklist with 48 questions, evaluates the evidence of need, efficacy, medication safety, and other factors.
The report shows facility prices outpaced general inflation, driving health spending growth among the privately insured. Per capita spending on healthcare services averaged $4,255 in 2010, with hospital and ambulatory care facility prices rising 5.1% and 10.1%, respectively.