Medication Access in America and Medicare Part D: Prescription Shopping Saves but May Be Costly

Abstract

This article is a reflection of some of the changes we have witnessed in pharmacy over the years, including the rise in medication use and prices and the transformation of how medicines are paid for in the United States, with growing concern over pricing transparency. We discuss the complex Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit, how enrollees can save by comparing plans annually, and the influence of preferred pharmacies. We review options for medication assistance other than Part D and share our belief that, although Medicare Part D has dramatically improved access to medicines, more needs to be done to decrease Medicare's and individuals’ out-of-pocket spending and, as importantly, to ensure that medicines are doing more good than harm.