NACDS supports legislation to improve patient care

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The National Association of Chain Drug Stores is lending its support to bipartisan federal legislation seeking better care for Medicare patients with chronic conditions.

NACDS sent letters to U.S. Reps. Erik Paulsen (R-Minn.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.), the 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 to provide integrated medical care for patients with chronic conditions.

“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.



The NACDS letter also noted pharmacists' ability to improve access to quality care, to improve patient health, and to make health care 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.”