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AHRQ Research Studies
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Research Studies is a compilation of published research articles funded by AHRQ or authored by AHRQ researchers.
Results
1 to 2 of 2 Research Studies DisplayedStarner CI, Alexander GC, Bowen K
Specialty drug coupons lower out-of-pocket costs and may improve adherence at the risk of increasing premiums.
The investigators examined insurers' role in maintaining the affordability and accessibility of specialty drugs while maximizing their value. They found that drug coupons accounted for $21.2 million of patients' $35.3 million annual out-of-pocket costs. In the vast majority of cases, coupons reduced monthly cost sharing to less than $250, a point at which patients were far less likely to abandon therapy with biologic anti-inflammatory drugs or with drugs for multiple sclerosis. They highlighted that, by reducing cost sharing, coupons may also circumvent efforts to encourage patients to use the most cost-effective drugs.
AHRQ-funded; HS018960.
Citation: Starner CI, Alexander GC, Bowen K .
Specialty drug coupons lower out-of-pocket costs and may improve adherence at the risk of increasing premiums.
Health Aff 2014 Oct;33(10):1761-9. doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.2014.0497.
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Keywords: Healthcare Costs, Health Insurance, Medication, Patient Adherence/Compliance
Pan IW, Smith BD, Shih YC
Factors contributing to underuse of radiation among younger women with breast cancer.
This study explores factors associated with noncompliance of RT among insured young patients. It found that competing demands from child care, especially the presence of a young child in the home, can constitute a barrier to complete guideline-concordant breast cancer therapy.
AHRQ-funded; HS018535.
Citation: Pan IW, Smith BD, Shih YC .
Factors contributing to underuse of radiation among younger women with breast cancer.
J Natl Cancer Inst 2014 Jan;106(1):djt340. doi: 10.1093/jnci/djt340..
Keywords: Cancer: Breast Cancer, Health Insurance, Patient Adherence/Compliance, Surgery, Treatments