CMS highlights ACA prescription savings

WASHINGTON — The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is looking to highlight the savings that Medicare beneficiaries have seen since the Afforable Care Act was enacted. CMS on Monday announced that 10.7 beneficiaries of Medicare have collectively saved more than $20.8 billion on their prescription drugs since the act took effect — an average of $1,945 in savings per beneficiary. 

 

Beyond savings, the organization noted that patients are also taking advantage of preventative services — with 39.2 million Medicare Advantage members making use of at least one preventative service — which doesn’t require a copay or deductible — in 2015. About 5.8 million original Medicare beneficiaries made use of an annual wellness visit in 2015, some million more than did so in 2014, CMS said. 

 

“Medicare consumers are now more engaged and empowered in their own health thanks to the Affordable Care Act,” CMS acting administrator Andy Slavitt said. “Millions are now able to access more affordable prescription medicine for their chronic conditions and millions more are staying healthier by accessing preventive services, especially vital for people living with disabilities or growing older.”