The May 5 editorial "Unsustainable Medicare" suggests correctly that concerns about the program's costs require a thoughtful approach. In evaluating the Medicare Part D prescription drug program, it is important to recognize the overwhelming health care cost savings that result from patients' adherence to appropriate medicinal therapy. Simply put, a hospital stay is significantly more expensive than the prescription drugs that could have prevented the need for in-patient care.
Furthermore, it is important to appreciate the role of community pharmacy in educating consumers about the proper use of their medications. Changes to Medicare, including the prescription drug benefit, need to be considered through the lens of how they affect community pharmacy, the health care providers within a mile, on average, of most American homes.
Steven C. Anderson, IOM, CAE
President and CEO
National Association of Chain Drug Stores
www.nacds