Perspective               

Seniors' Drug Costs Four Times Those of Non-Seniors

A study done by Express Scripts, a pharmacy benefit manager, looked at prescription drug use in 1998 among 57,000 older Americans with private health insurance. The study found that the cost of drug coverage for older Americans can be up to four times that of the general population.

The researchers also learned that the average price for a single prescription was more than $40 for a month's supply in five of the top 10 drug categories used by seniors. In addition, the study said that one-third of all prescription claims were for only five drugs, all related to the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

The study claims that older Americans have higher drug costs compared to those under 65 because they are more likely to use prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions. Also, seniors are more likely to have many conditions at the same time, making it more likely for them to use several drugs.

Emily R. Cox, the head researcher for the study, said that it is important for policymakers to look at seniors' drug use patterns and costs so that they can evaluate the correctness of coverage given by different proposed Medicare prescription drug plans.

If you are concerned about prescription drug coverage, contact your Congress members and let them know. To find out how to contact your Congress members, go to www.visi.com/juan/congress. If you need help paying for your prescription drugs, call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, and ask about any programs that help people with Medicare pay for their medications. The number is listed in Medicare & You. Or you can all 1-800-MEDICARE, that's 1-800-633-4227.

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