Asthma Medication Costs Still a Barrier for Many Patients
Asthma Medication costs Still a Barrier for Millions of Americans
Despite a downward trend, financial hardship continues to prevent one in six Americans with asthma from taking their medication as prescribed, putting them at increased risk for attacks and emergency room visits, according to new research.
The study, published in the journal Thorax, analyzed data from the national Health Interview Survey from 2011 to 2022, encompassing responses from over 30,000 adults with asthma. While the percentage of individuals citing cost as a barrier to medication adherence has decreased substantially over the past decade, it remains a pressing issue for millions.
“In 2022, nearly 3 million Americans with asthma reported skipping doses, taking fewer doses, or delaying refills due to financial constraints,” said the study’s lead author. “This is a concerning trend, as it directly impacts their health and well-being.”
The study found that those most likely to face financial barriers to asthma medication included younger adults (aged 18-60), women, Black individuals, and those living in Southern states. Low income, lack of health insurance, and co-existing health conditions also increased the likelihood of cost-related medication non-adherence.
the consequences of not taking asthma medication as prescribed are important. The study revealed that individuals who cited cost as a barrier were nearly twice as likely to experience an asthma attack and over 60% more likely to require emergency care compared to those who didn’t face financial constraints.
“These findings underscore the critical need for policies that ensure equitable access to affordable asthma medications,” emphasized Dr. emily Graul and Dr. Christer Janson in a linked editorial. They highlighted the potential of including asthma medications in future drug price negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act, which has already lowered costs for some chronic conditions.
While the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid expansion may have contributed to the decline in cost-related medication non-adherence, the study authors stress that more needs to be done to address this persistent issue. Ensuring that all Americans with asthma have access to the medication they need is crucial for improving their health outcomes and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.
Asthma Medication Costs: A barrier Persists for Millions
Millions of Americans continue to face financial hardship accessing vital asthma medication, putting their health at risk. New research published in Thorax reveals that despite a downward trend, one in six Americans wiht asthma still struggle to afford their prescribed medication.
This translates to nearly 3 million Americans skipping doses, taking less medication, or delaying refills simply as they can’t afford it, according to study led author.
The study, which analyzed data from the national Health Interview Survey between 2011 and 2022, identified younger adults (aged 18-60), women, Black individuals, and Southern residents as the most vulnerable to cost-related barriers. Low income, lack of health insurance, and co-existing health conditions further increased the likelihood of medication non-adherence.
These financial barriers have serious consequences. Individuals who cited cost as a barrier were nearly twice as likely to experience an asthma attack and over 60% more likely to require emergency care compared to those without financial constraints.
In a linked editorial, Dr. Emily Graul and dr. christer Janson emphasize the urgent need for policies ensuring equitable access to affordable asthma medication.They point to the potential of including asthma medications in future drug price negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act, which has already demonstrated success in lowering costs for other chronic conditions.
While the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid expansion have contributed to a decline in cost-related medication non-adherence, further action is crucial. Ensuring all Americans with asthma have access to the medication they need is vital for improving health outcomes and reducing the strain on the healthcare system.