Arlington, Va. – Bipartisan legislation introduced in the House of Representatives to advance better care for Medicare patients with chronic conditions received support from NACDS in letters to Reps. Erik Paulsen (R-MN) and Peter Welch (D-VT). The congressmen are the original sponsors of the Better Care, Lower Cost Act (H.R. 4878), which would amend the Social Security Act to establish a Medicare Better Care Program (BCP) to provide integrated medical care for patients with chronic conditions.
We are happy that the effectiveness of pharmacists in delivering patient care is resonating with policymakers.
“Your legislation will promote accountability and better care management for chronically ill patients and provide coordinated services under Parts A, B and D, while recognizing that pharmacists and pharmacy services have great potential to improve care for patients with chronic health conditions,” NACDS said in the letter.
BCPs provide a coordinated care approach for patients with chronic conditions to help them manage their health.
NACDS’ letter noted pharmacists’ ability to improve access to quality care, to improve patient health, and to make healthcare more affordable.
“As the demand for healthcare services continues to grow, pharmacists have expanded their role in healthcare delivery, partnering with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to meet their patients’ needs. By providing services that allow patients to take their medications more effectively and by providing preventive services, pharmacists help patients avoid more costly forms of care down the line,” NACDS wrote.
“We are happy that the effectiveness of pharmacists in delivering patient care is resonating with policymakers,” NACDS concluded in the letter.
