Implementation of the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit is associated with antiretroviral therapy interruptions

AIDS Behav. 2009 Feb;13(1):1-9. doi: 10.1007/s10461-008-9401-5. Epub 2008 May 16.

Abstract

Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment interruptions are associated with virologic rebound, drug resistance, and increased morbidity and mortality. The Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit, implemented on January 1st, 2006, increased consumer cost-sharing. Consumer cost-sharing is associated with decreased access to medications and adverse clinical outcomes. We assessed the association of Part D implementation with treatment interruptions by studying 125 HIV-infected homeless and marginally housed individuals with drug coverage receiving ARV therapy. Thirty-five percent of respondents reported Medicare coverage and 11% reported ARV interruptions. The odds of ARV interruptions were six times higher among those with Part D coverage and remained significant after adjustment. The majority of Part D-covered respondents reporting ARV interruptions cited increased cost as their primary barrier. Directed interventions to monitor the long-term effects of increased cost burden on interruptions and clinical outcomes and to reduce cost burden are necessary to avoid preventable increases in morbidity and mortality.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-HIV Agents / economics
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cost Sharing / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medicare Part D* / statistics & numerical data
  • Medication Adherence* / statistics & numerical data
  • Middle Aged
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • United States

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents