Americans skipping doses and delaying filling prescriptions to save money #Americans#prescriptions#money

Americans Skip Doses, Delay Filling Prescriptions to Save Money

Americans skipping doses to save money

A new study by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that nearly one in four Americans (23%) have skipped doses or delayed filling a prescription in the past year due to cost. The study also found that the rate of cost-related nonadherence is highest among people with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

There are a number of reasons why people may skip doses or delay filling prescriptions due to cost. One reason is that the cost of prescription drugs has been rising faster than inflation for many years. In fact, the average price of a prescription drug increased by 5.2% in 2021, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) only increased by 7.5%. This means that prescription drugs are becoming increasingly unaffordable for many people.

Another reason why people may skip doses or delay filling prescriptions due to cost is that they may not have health insurance or may have high-deductible health plans. People with high-deductible health plans are responsible for paying a large portion of the cost of their care before their insurance kicks in. This can make it difficult for people to afford the cost of prescription drugs.

Skipping doses or delaying filling prescriptions can have serious health consequences. For example, people who skip doses of their diabetes medication may experience a spike in their blood sugar levels, which can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and blindness. People who delay filling their prescriptions for high blood pressure medication may experience a spike in their blood pressure, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

There are a number of things that can be done to help people afford their prescription drugs. One thing that can be done is to increase access to generic drugs. Generic drugs are typically much cheaper than brand-name drugs. Another thing that can be done is to expand access to health insurance coverage. Health insurance can help people afford the cost of their prescription drugs. Finally, people can also work with their doctors to find ways to reduce the cost of their medications. For example, doctors may be able to prescribe a less expensive medication or may be able to provide samples of the medication.

The high cost of prescription drugs is a serious problem for many Americans. It is important to raise awareness of this issue and to find ways to help people afford their medications.