NACDS recommends that CMS recognize pharmacy services in proposed ACO rules
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services needs to recognize pharmacy services in its proposed rules for accountable care organizations and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) needs to recognize pharmacy services in its proposed rules for accountable care organizations (ACOs) and the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
In a letter to CMS, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) recommended that community pharmacists be recognized for the important role they can play in patients’ overall healthcare, including provision of medication therapy management (MTM) and immunizations.
“We think medication adherence is among the important measures for ACOs. It is about expanding the role of community care, which could include immunizations and other preventive services and screenings,” said Chrissy Kopple, an NACDS representative.
“We want to partner with physicians and other healthcare professionals … and be involved in the care team and taking care of patients,” added Julie Helm Khani, vice president of public policy for NACDS.
CMS is expected to issue a final rule on ACOs in January, and final regulations are expected to be implemented by January 2012.
