Improving Medication Adherence through Medicare Changes
Recent legislative changes in Medicare aimed at reducing prescription drug costs have positively impacted medication adherence among beneficiaries with cardiovascular conditions. This finding, presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session and published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, highlights significant improvements in medication access.
The study examines elements of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, effective January 1, 2024. Researchers utilized 2024 survey data to compare shifts in medication non-compliance due to costs among older adults with cardiovascular issues, against data from previous years.
Dr. Lucas Marinacci of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center spearheaded the research team, noting enhanced medication affordability for low-income individuals. New policy changes increased subsidy eligibility to 150% of the federal poverty level and abolished coinsurance for catastrophic coverage, reducing out-of-pocket drug expenses.
Using data from the National Health Interview Survey, the study assessed those with coronary heart disease and high blood pressure, comparing self-reported medication affordability from 2021-2023 to 2024. The findings indicated a 5.5 percentage point reduction in medication non-adherence among participants newly eligible for expanded subsidies.
Broader analysis showed a 2.1 percentage point drop in non-adherence among seniors under Medicare, compared to those without. These improvements were significant even after adjusting for socio-demographic and economic variables. However, no notable differences were found for individuals above 150% of the poverty line or in overall healthcare financial concerns.
Approximately 70,000 low-income seniors improved adherence to their prescribed medications in 2024, enhancing patient health outcomes. The study suggests similar policies could benefit private and Medicaid insurance.
The research emphasizes the need for effective communication from healthcare providers to ensure patients understand policy changes and their potential cost savings. Supported by the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Marinacci will present the findings at a session for young investigators.