Real-time benefit tools for medication costs wanted by older adults

Rising prescription drug prices and increased expenses have led to concerns about cost-related medication nonadherence in older adults.

In a recent survey of 2005 adults aged 65 and older, 20% reported cost-related nonadherence. Extreme cost-coping measures, like sacrificing basic needs or going into debt, were observed. However, 89.5% of participants expressed a desire for physicians to utilize real-time benefit tools to support cost-conscious prescribing.

Concerns were raised about the accuracy of price estimates, as individuals would be upset if actual prices exceeded the tool’s estimates. Transparency and open communication about medication costs were valued.

The study emphasizes the need for accurate pricing information when using real-time benefit tools to avoid harm and enhance medication adherence among older adults.

Reference
Dusetzina SB, Besaw RJ, Whitmore CC, et al. Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence and Desire for Medication Cost Information Among Adults Aged 65 Years and Older in the US in 2022. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(5):e2314211. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.14211. PMID: 37200029.