Research: Education improves deprescribing efforts
The GeriPal Podcast recently discussed four studies on deprescribing medications in older adults, highlighting innovative approaches to reducing medication use and improving patient outcomes. In one study, patients received brochures detailing the risks of gabapentinoids, nonpharmacologic alternatives, and a proposed deprescribing regimen. Clinicians participated in monthly educational sessions. The result: a deprescribing rate of 21.1% in the intervention group, compared to 9.9% in the usual care group. This study underscores the power of patient education in promoting safer medication use. (GeriPal)
The case for clinical pharmacists in child psychiatry
A paper in Inpatient Psychiatry makes the case for including psychiatric clinical pharmacists on child and adolescent psychiatry care teams. These experts enhance patient outcomes through psychopharmacology, medication safety, and comprehensive medication management. Recognizing them as providers and using collaborative practice agreements can address care gaps, reduce costs, support regulatory compliance, and promote evidence-based prescribing. And the benefits apply across the board: “It is in the best interest of patients, providers, and broader health care systems to advocate for the inclusion of psychiatric clinical pharmacists… on every interdisciplinary care team.” (Inpatient Psychiatry)
Practice Transformation
SCOTUS to take up another ACA challenge
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a broad challenge to the Affordable Care Act’s coverage of preventive services. This is the latest in a series of battles over the ACA. If the court rules in favor of the conservative Texas employers who filed the case, it could erode coverage for tens of millions of people who receive health insurance through their employer or the “Obamacare” marketplace. Such a ruling would remove the requirement for insurers to cover the full cost of services, including birth control, vaccines, and mental health screenings. (Politico)
So, what does the repeal of 14087 really mean?
President Donald Trump repealed Executive Order 14087, which was introduced by former President Joe Biden to lower prescription drug costs. The order aimed to reduce drug prices through Medicare negotiation, state support and the promotion of competition. Despite the repeal, existing laws and regulations for Medicare and Medicaid drug pricing remain unaffected. The Inflation Reduction Act still allows Medicare to negotiate drug prices and imposes penalties for price hikes, while insulin and yearly out-of-pocket cost caps are unchanged. However, the reversal has disrupted momentum toward new cost-saving measures and sparked debate over the future of healthcare affordability in the United States. (Pharmacy Times; Newsweek)
Evidence & Innovation
Final rule allows telehealth buprenorphine prescription
Before leaving office, the Biden administration finalized a rule allowing healthcare providers to prescribe up to six months of buprenorphine for opioid use disorder via telehealth, including audio-only visits, without an initial in-person consultation. Issued by the DEA and SAMHSA, the rule aims to expand access to gold-standard treatment. After the six-month period, providers must either conduct an in-person medical evaluation or continue treatment through another form of telemedicine, ensuring flexibility while maintaining patient care standards. (Roll Call)
Policy Solutions
Telehealth continues to grow
In October—the most recent data available—the national telehealth utilization rate increased, with the West experiencing the largest growth at 2.8%, while the Midwest saw a decline of 3.7%, according to FAIR Health. Telehealth claim lines increased from 4.80% of medical claim lines in September to 4.89% in October. Psychiatric nursing became the second-most common telehealth specialty, and mental health conditions remained the top diagnostic category. Telehealth was used most by 31- to 40-year-olds across all regions, except the Midwest, which experienced a decline. (Becker’s Hospital Review; FAIR)
