Should feds limit coverage of antianemia agents?
CMS proposes paying for darbepoetin (Aranesp, Amgen) and epoetin alfa (Epogen, Amgen; Procrit, Ortho Biotech) only to treat anemia in certain cancer patients. Still to be considered is the use of the antianemia drugs among patients with kidney failure.
In view of the fact that the liberal use of erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) has been associated with some safety issues, CMS is proposing to limit coverage of these products. For now, the agency proposes paying for darbepoetin (Aranesp, Amgen) and epoetin alfa (Epogen, Amgen; Procrit, Ortho Biotech) only to treat anemia in certain cancer patients. Still to be considered is the use of the antianemia drugs among patients with kidney failure. CMS issued its proposal on May 14, giving the public 30 days to comment. The agency said it would make a final decision no later than 60 days after the end of the comment period. Click
Pharmacists Play Unique Role in Advancing Health Equity for Patients With Chronic Disease
December 7th 2023A new study, outlined in a poster at ASHP Midyear 2023, identified 3 key themes associated with the ways in which pharmacists are positioned to advance health equity for patients with chronic diseases.
Assessing Financial Impacts of Pharmacist-Led Interventions in Pediatric Ambulatory Care
December 5th 2023According to a poster abstract presented at the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting & Exhibition, specialty pharmacy services were used for a variety of conditions that have been reported in adult populations.
