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WASHINGTON D.C. — As the House Ways & Means Committee convenes to address critical issues surrounding home care policy and access, the Alliance for Long-Term Care Pharmacy @ Home urges Congress to take decisive action by calling on CMS to leverage their authority to ensure Medicare beneficiary access to LTC pharmacy at home services. The Alliance, representing a coalition of long-term care pharmacies, professional associations, and care management groups, emphasizes the vital role of these services in supporting medically complex patients, particularly those in underserved and rural communities Unlike traditional pharmacies, at-home LTC pharmacies proactively bring advanced pharmacy services directly to individuals, operating 24/7 to ensure patients receive optimal medication management, adherence support, and consultation with caregivers. These services not only alleviate burdens on healthcare staff but also empower patients to maintain independence within their communities.
"Expanding access to LTC pharmacy services at home is not just a convenience; it's a necessity, especially for rural beneficiaries who often face significant barriers to care,” said Chad Worz, PharmD, Chief Executive Officer of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP). “Congress must prioritize enforcing convenient access standards to ensure equitable access for all Medicare beneficiaries." Addressing the current policy landscape, the Alliance highlights the significant gap in support for Medicare beneficiaries needing LTC pharmacy services at home. While CMS has acknowledged that Part D enrollees requiring LTC pharmacy services can reside in a variety of settings, including assisted living facilities and their home, most Part D plans still do not provide adequate reimbursement for LTC at home pharmacy services, which significantly impedes access to these specialized services for individuals residing at home. "Current reimbursement policies do not align with the critical role LTC pharmacies play in preventing adverse drug events and reducing hospitalizations,” said Lindsay Dymowski, President and Cofounder of Centennial Pharmacy Services. “We encourage Congress recognize this shortfall by Medicare plans and demand CMS take decisive steps to compel Medicare Advantage and Part D plans to fully incorporate LTC pharmacies into their networks, ensuring that beneficiaries receive the lifesaving care they need.” In light of the staggering costs associated with preventable hospitalizations and adverse drug events, the Alliance urges swift action to bridge the gap between policy and practice. By leveraging existing CMS’ authority to ensure beneficiary access to LTC pharmacy at home services, policymakers can empower Medicare beneficiaries to age in place safely while reducing healthcare expenditures and improving health outcomes. About the Alliance for Long-Term Care Pharmacy @ Home The Alliance for Long-Term Care Pharmacy @ Home is a coalition of long-term care pharmacies, professional associations, and care management groups dedicated to increasing access to LTC pharmacy services for medically complex patients living in their homes and communities. For more information about The Alliance for Long-Term Care Pharmacy @ Home and our members, visit www.pharmacyathome.org. Comments are closed.
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