What We're Reading: Nonadherence Epidemic; Insurers Consider ACA Participation; Veterans Health Program

Nonadherence Is Out of Control

Despite being nearly 100% preventable, nonadherence to prescribed medications is staggeringly high in the United States. The New York Times reported that up to 30% of medication prescriptions are never filled and people who do take them only take half the prescribed dose. Cost is just one reason why nonadherence is so high. Other reasons include that medications remind people they’re sick and some people think medications are “unnatural.”

Insurers Lean Toward ACA Participation in 2018

Although President Donald Trump could cancel payments to insurers that help low-income individuals afford care and Republicans may still try to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurers plan to remain in ACA marketplaces in 2018. A recent survey found that 96% of insurers still plan to participate in the marketplaces next year, but that they may make adjustments in strategy, reported The Hill. However, any definitive actions that impact the cost-sharing subsidies will likely make insurers reconsider.

Private-Sector Healthcare Program for VA

Trump will extend a program that allows veterans to access care through the private sector. The program was created as a way to provide care while the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) developed a way to reduce wait times by letting veterans receive care outside the VA medical system, according to the AP. The program has nearly $1 billion in funding remaining and the extension will simply let the program continue until that funding is completely used up.