MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'The American Journal of Managed Care' source. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:50:50 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3351303&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20205491%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In a setting in which ability to pay is neutralized, inpatient stroke rehabilitation service in this universal NHI program was equitable but inadequate relative to use elsewhere or estimated need. Less severe case mix and financial or human resources constraints might partially account for the low utilization. Further studies measuring stroke severity and functional status are needed to clarify the actual utilization, requirements, and cost-effectiveness of inpatient stroke rehabilitation services. PMID: 20205491 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3351303 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:56:02 +0100 3351303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3351302&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20205492%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Policymakers could invest up to $6 million to $9 million a year to get children vaccinated in September or October without expending any net costs. PMID: 20205492 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3351302 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:56:02 +0100 3351302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3351301&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20205493%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The economic burden of providing care to patients with CVD may be substantially greater than current American Heart Association estimates. Although several comorbid conditions undoubtedly contribute to these costs, avoidance of secondary CVD hospitalization may be the key to substantially reducing healthcare consumption. PMID: 20205493 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3351301 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:56:02 +0100 3351301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271355&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148608%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Small financial incentives (maximum, $5000/year) based on individual physicians' performance may have led to continued or enhanced improvement in well-established ambulatory care measures. Compared with other quality improvement programs having alternative foci for incentives (eg, increasing support for staff hours), the effect of physician-specific incentives was not evident. PMID: 20148608 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271355 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:48:03 +0100 3271355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271354&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148609%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Adherence was lower for a few drug classes among CDHP patients. PMID: 20148609 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271354 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:48:03 +0100 3271354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271353&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148610%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Employer groups who provide dental-medical benefits for their employees send identical administrative data to dental and healthcare plans. The n - 1 deterministic linkage was accomplished by using a relatively straightforward approach because these data were fairly homogeneous and of high quality. Until medical care and dental care are integrated, it is possible to link these data to assess the impact of oral disease on overall health. PMID: 20148610 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271353 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:48:03 +0100 3271353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271352&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148611%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: More than one-third of older veterans initiating dialysis do not receive nephrology care beforehand. Dual use of VA and Medicare-covered services was associated with greater receipt and favorable timeliness of predialysis nephrology care, while use of only Medicare-covered services was associated with late predialysis nephrology care. Further studies to identify reasons for system-level variations in access to predialysis nephrology care may assist in identifying opportunities for improvement. PMID: 20148611 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271352 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:48:03 +0100 3271352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271351&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148612%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Galvin RS PMID: 20148612 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271351 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271350&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148613%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: O'Kane M PMID: 20148613 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271350 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271349&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148614%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: These data support the feasibility of using chart audits to assess the relationship between appropriateness criteria and HTDI orders. Although introduction of EHR clinical decision support for diagnostic imaging orders was associated with reduced volume and increased appropriateness of orders, there was little apparent impact on either findings or patients. PMID: 20148614 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271349 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271348&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148615%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: SALAC and its components can aid in predicting patients at risk for AAE. PMID: 20148615 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271348 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271347&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148616%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Compared with the 1995 cohort, 1-year persistence with statin therapy in Finland improved among new users of statins in 1998, and the improvement persisted up to 2004. Adherence to statin therapy remained stable among initiators from 1995 to 2004. PMID: 20148616 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271347 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271346&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148617%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest use of tiered networks to direct consumers to preferred providers requires increased consumer awareness and trust in the health plan as a source for provider rankings. Efforts targeting consumers before they decide to see a physician may be more successful. PMID: 20148617 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271346 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271345&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148618%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The positive correlation in utilization and lack of correlation in spending implies an inverse correlation in prices. This is consistent with evidence that the differences appear to be, at least partially, related to aspects of the market structure. If private markets are to work better to reduce cost, stronger efforts are needed to reduce provider market concentration and promote competitive pricing for healthcare services. PMID: 20148618 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271345 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271344&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148619%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: An MS DTM program incorporating medication management resulted in increased adherence and persistence to injectable MS medications and decreased MS relapses. Quality of life and work productivity were not significantly changed. Patients reported improved ability to manage their health. PMID: 20148619 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271344 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271363&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148600%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pawlson LG, Lee TH PMID: 20148600 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271363 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271362&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148601%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: We identified a substantial cohort of elderly diabetes patients with DBP <70 mm Hg who were on 3 medications at adequate doses, but who did not meet the current performance measurement criteria (140/90 or 130/80 mm Hg). We suggest that such patients be excluded from performance measures, or if included, be noted for special attention by clinicians to balance intensification with risk. PMID: 20148601 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271362 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271362 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271361&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148602%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The method of bundling care measures can have a profound effect on the reporting of goals achieved. This can in turn influence the assessment of provider performance and opportunity gaps in diabetes care delivery. In this study, providers were more likely to achieve processes-of-care goals when diabetes care was bundled at the indicator level than at the patient level. Standardization of summary reporting of diabetes care should be developed to enhance consistent interpretation of performance. PMID: 20148602 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271361 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271360&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148603%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Compared with patients who obtained medication refills at local pharmacies, patients who received them by mail were more likely to have good adherence. The association between mail-order use and medication adherence should be evaluated in a randomized clinical trial. PMID: 20148603 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271360 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271359&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148604%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Among intervention patients in a successful DDMP, improvement in A1C level was achieved regardless of age, race/ethnicity, sex, income, education, or insurance status. Labor inputs were similar regardless of age, race/ethnicity, sex, or education and may reflect the nondiscriminatory nature of providing algorithm-based disease management care. PMID: 20148604 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271359 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271358&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148605%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: We found an association between participation in the German diabetes DMP and reduced mortality. This reduced mortality cannot be attributed directly to the DMP. However, further research should evaluate whether a primary care-based DMP contributes to increased life expectancy in patients with diabetes. PMID: 20148605 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271358 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271357&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148606%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The likelihood of youth with type 2 diabetes and a source of physician care having a physician office visit during the year before the index date did not differ between patients with Medicaid versus private insurance. This suggests that the amount of physician care before diagnosis of type 2 diabetes does not differ for Medicaid-covered youth if they can establish a source of care. Additional research is investigating whether physician access before diagnosis is associated with access to diabetes-related care after diagnosis. PMID: 20148606 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271357 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271356&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20148607%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: This P4P program for diabetes was associated with a significant increase in regular follow-up visits and evidence-based services, and significantly lower hospitalization costs. The overall cost of care for those in the P4P program was significantly higher, although the total incremental expense was quite small. PMID: 20148607 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271356 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3271356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160854&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20059286%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The use of certain BHS PIMs in the elderly may increase AEs or healthcare costs. PMID: 20059286 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160854 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3160854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160853&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20059287%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: A P4P can significantly increase the receipt of quality care and decrease hospitalization rates among patients with diabetes in a PPO setting. Although it is possible that the differences observed between P4P-participating physicians and non-P4P-participating physicians were due to selection bias, we found no significant difference in the receipt of quality care between patients with diabetes who saw new P4P-participating physicians versus non-P4P-participating physicians during the baseline year. Further research should focus on defining the effect of P4Ps on intermediate outcomes such as glycosylated hemoglobin and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. PMID: 20059287 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160853 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3160853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160852&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20059288%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: A $5 copayment increase (from $2 to $7) adversely impacted medication adherence for veterans subject to copayments taking oral hypoglycemic agents, antihypertensive medications, or statins. PMID: 20059288 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160852 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3160852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102422&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001167%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Antibiotic utilization varies substantially among commercial health plans and is not accounted for by differences in the age and sex distribution of plan members. Because reducing rates of antibiotic utilization is likely to lower costs and improve quality, high-utilizing plans may reap considerable rewards from investing in programs to reduce the overuse of antibiotics. PMID: 20001167 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102422 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102421&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001168%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Antihypertensive medication adherence was associated with improvement in some short-term utilization measures among high-prior-cost employees, but significant short-term improvement was not seen among low-prior-cost employees. PMID: 20001168 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102421 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102420&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001169%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Altering copayments for pharmaceuticals may affect the rate of conversion to generic drugs but is unlikely in and of itself to result in complete conversion. However, increasing adherence can result in net savings for specific diabetic drug classes, as savings from all-cause medical costs offset the increase in pharmacy costs. PMID: 20001169 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102420 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102419&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001170%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In cardiac surgeons' outcomes quality monitoring, individual managed care plans face a "law of small numbers." Insufficient patient volume by contracted surgeons, inadequate variation in outcomes, and low levels of adverse outcomes combine to make true quality almost impossible to infer. Some mitigation may be possible through more effective use of data (more measures and pooling over time) and through more effective interorganizational sharing of data (leveraging specialist society quality data and statewide pooling). PMID: 20001170 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102419 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102418&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001171%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Using drug and medical claims data, it is feasible to develop models that could assist prescription-monitoring programs, payers, and healthcare providers in evaluating patient characteristics associated with elevated risk for prescription opioid abuse. PMID: 20001171 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102418 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3102417&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20001172%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Disenrollment was not associated with overall managed care plan quality as measured by CAHPS and HEDIS, suggesting that further study is warranted to determine optimal strategies for enhancing managed care quality in the SCHIP population. PMID: 20001172 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3102417 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3102417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056104&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19954269%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Targeted curricula on aspects of the pharmaceutical development, approval, and marketing process can lead to subjective changes in clinician knowledge and can facilitate intent-to-change practice. Larger studies are needed to assess the effect of such interventions on prescribing patterns. PMID: 19954269 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056104 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3056104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056103&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19954270%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Instant approval may be more patient friendly and prescriber friendly than PA as assessed by a proxy measure for access (gap in therapy) and physician-reported acceptance. Despite its ease of use, IA does not seem to reduce switching to preferred drugs. PMID: 19954270 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056103 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3056103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975092&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895180%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Administrative claims analysis identified low rates of prescriber compliance with BBWs in managing patients age >or=65 years. Claims analysis may be a cost-effective strategy to monitor prescriber compliance with BBWs in older patients at higher risk. PMID: 19895180 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975092 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975091&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895181%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Haggstrom DA, Carney TJ PMID: 19895181 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975091 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975090&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895182%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Timely RT should be facilitated through physician and patient education, navigation, and notification programs to improve quality of care. Queues for RT appointments should be evaluated on an ongoing basis to ensure adequate access. Future research should examine modifiable barriers to RT timeliness and whether delays impact long-term outcomes. PMID: 19895182 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975090 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975089&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895183%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In this insured population for whom financial barriers are minimized, PSA screening varied by race/ethnicity and by other patient and clinical factors, possibly reflecting inconsistencies in prostate cancer screening guidelines. Despite these differences, healthcare providers have a key role in patients' likelihood of undergoing PSA screening. PMID: 19895183 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975089 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975088&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895184%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Changes to the health system need to consider not only how to reduce inappropriate medical utilization but also how to ensure that those diagnosed as having cancer and other serious medical conditions will not be doubly burdened with poor health and high medical expenditures. PMID: 19895184 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975088 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975087&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895185%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Electronic devices are being developed to make chronic disease management easier for patients and their families, but they should not be adopted without careful study, including randomized trials, to ascertain their use, costs, and benefits. PMID: 19895185 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975087 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975086&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895186%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: AICCP improved communication and care delivery, advance planning, and do-not-resuscitate or do-not-intubate orders in a population at risk to use them. AICCP had fewer admissions. Coordination and health counseling seem matched for those coping with advancing illness. PMID: 19895186 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975086 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975085&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895187%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gandjour A PMID: 19895187 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975085 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975084&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895188%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Cost-sharing had a substantial negative association with adherence among low adherers and little association at higher adherence levels. At a clinical level, physicians should closely monitor adherence to antihypertensive drugs, particularly for patients with multiple comorbidities and those taking multiple drugs. At a health system level, current benefit designs should encourage adherence while limiting the cost burden of drugs for patients with multiple chronic conditions taking multiple drugs. PMID: 19895188 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975084 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2975083&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19895189%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The broad meaning and the value of healthcare efficiency seem uncontroversial, yet any particular application may be confronted with conflicting perspectives and with practical challenges. PMID: 19895189 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2975083 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2975083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923752&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845419%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Antos J, Bertko J, Chernew M, Cutler D, Goldman D, McClellan M, McGlynn E, Pauly M, Schaeffer L, Shortell S PMID: 19845419 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923752 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923751&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845420%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In GERD patients receiving NSAIDs, those who were compliant with PPI therapy had a longer NSAID treatment duration and better GI tolerability than those who were noncompliant. PMID: 19845420 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923751 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923751 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923750&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845421%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Although our adherence rates were higher than those previously reported in the literature, statin nonadherence still is associated with higher mortality, demonstrating the need to continue to improve statin adherence in this population. PMID: 19845421 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923750 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923750 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923749&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845422%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Veterans who use VA pharmacy services appear to be more ill than those who do not use VA pharmacy services. In addition, the VA appears to be a safety net for uninsured veterans who have mental health problems. PMID: 19845422 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923749 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923748&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845423%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Substantial copayment differentials may be an effective means of encouraging patients to change physicians. Where they are based on reliable information about provider quality and cost, tiered networks may improve value. PMID: 19845423 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923748 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923747&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845424%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Dental insurance is an important factor in the decision to seek dental care. Yet, no dental coverage is provided by Medicare, which provides medical insurance for almost all Americans 65 years and older. This loss of coverage could lead to distortions in the timing of when to seek care, ultimately leading to worse oral and overall health. PMID: 19845424 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923747 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923746&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845425%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Certificate-of-need programs have limited the growth in the supply of hospital beds, and this has led to a slight reduction in the growth of healthcare expenditures. PMID: 19845425 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923746 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923745&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845426%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bindman AB, Chen A, Fraser JS, Yee HF, Ofman D Public hospital safety net systems face constant financial constraints, hindering their ability to provide adequate healthcare services. Many healthcare reform proposals would further weaken these systems by redirecting current safety net resources toward private insurance. Despite or perhaps because of this challenging environment, many successes in improving care for poor and vulnerable populations have been pioneered in safety net systems. San Francisco, California, is implementing several innovative programs to strengthen the financial viability of its healthcare safety net while also attempting to improve the access to and the quality of healthcare services. PMID: 19845426 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journ... The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923745 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923744&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845427%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Although the VMBIP was implemented to save costs, this study finds that during the VMBIP's initial implementation timeline, providers experienced longer delivery delays and a higher probability of a VFC stockout. PMID: 19845427 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923744 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923743&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19845428%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In addition to race and age, visit length and the nurses' vaccination status were associated with adult vaccination rates. Quality improvement initiatives for adult vaccination might include strengthening social influence of providers and/or ensuring that adequate time is scheduled for preventive care. PMID: 19845428 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923743 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2923743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894858&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19817511%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: A simplified method for bundling fixed doses of a generic statin and an ACEI/ARB was successfully implemented in a large, diverse population in an integrated healthcare delivery system, reducing the risk of hospitalization for MI and stroke. PMID: 19817511 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894858 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2894858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894857&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19817512%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Although the PA was shown to effectively control access to pregabalin, the overall effect was an increase in the use of opioids and alternative pain management therapies associated with increased disease-related healthcare costs. PMID: 19817512 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894857 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2894857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797101&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747020%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sidorov J PMID: 19747020 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797101 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797100&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747021%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of a disease management program was associated with substantial improvements in processes and outcomes of diabetes care over 6 years. Although secular trend likely contributed somewhat, improvement in other measures was significantly associated with duration of enrollment in the health plan, making secular trend an unlikely explanation for all of our findings. PMID: 19747021 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797100 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797099&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747022%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Prior authorization has been successfully implemented in the managed care setting studied to obtain 100% performance of a laboratory test necessary to monitor drug therapy outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus. When PA is implemented as a quality assurance strategy, its revocation should be accompanied by continuing education efforts designed to maintain optimal adherence to recommendations for appropriate care. PMID: 19747022 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797099 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797098&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747023%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: All factors studied contribute to diabetes quality results. Reporting both physician group performance and health plan performance may offer a greater opportunity to improve care than reporting only health plan or only physician group results. PMID: 19747023 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797098 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797097&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747024%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that T2DM consumes a large portion of healthcare expenditures and will continue to place a heavy burden on health budgets in the future. Preventive intervention, screening, and treatment strategies may effectively decrease the incidence and complications of diabetes and therefore save costs. PMID: 19747024 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797097 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797096&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747025%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Under base-case assumptions, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is cost-effective in the treatment of T2DM in the United States with an ICER below $50,000 per QALY gained. Sensitivity analyses indicated that bariatric surgery is not cost-effective over shorter time horizons, or if the negative quality-of-life impact of increased body mass index is ignored. PMID: 19747025 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797096 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797095&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747026%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Family physicians failed to identify most obese and overweight patients, as seen by lack of BMI documentation and concordant diagnoses in the medical problem list. Determination of BMI by physicians in family practice is of utmost importance, and its incorporation into medical care should be optimized. PMID: 19747026 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797095 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797094&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747027%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Few CEAs modeled suboptimal medication adherence. As CEAs are meant to model "real world" costs and effects of interventions, investigators would do well to explicitly consider medication adherence in the future. PMID: 19747027 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797094 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797093&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747028%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The use of TPS methods resulted in a QI intervention that was associated with an increase in appropriate perioperative antibiotic therapy among surgical patients, without affecting LOS. PMID: 19747028 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797093 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797092&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747029%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Various refinements and clarifications to the benefit have been made to date; however, opportunities for improvement remain. The availability of Part D data will allow researchers to determine the impact of drugs on overall health outcomes and costs for Medicare beneficiaries. PMID: 19747029 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797092 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2797091&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19747030%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cox ER, Seiz BJ PMID: 19747030 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2797091 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2797091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2770328&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19728768%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: A PCMH redesign can be associated with improvements in patient experience, clinician burnout, and quality without increasing overall cost. PMID: 19728768 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2770328 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2770328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696311&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670951%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Persons with AD have higher odds of experiencing a fracture, being hospitalized, and requiring other acute care medical services than those without AD. The disease also is associated with a higher prevalence of common chronic conditions. PMID: 19670951 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696311 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696310&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670952%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Patients with diabetes using thiazolidinediones, regardless of type, had higher proportions of distal upper and lower limb fractures compared with those not using thiazolidinediones. Fracture proportions were higher among women and increased with age. PMID: 19670952 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696310 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696309&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670953%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that LDL-C measures can remain controlled in most patients discharged from a cardiac disease management program. PMID: 19670953 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696309 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696308&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670954%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with ESRD, PD patients are less likely than HD patients to be hospitalized in the year following initiation of dialysis. They also have significantly lower total healthcare costs. PMID: 19670954 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696308 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696307&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670955%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Although this analysis of a dementia care management intervention did not demonstrate a significant cost offset, the intervention may represent a worthwhile approach to improving the quality of care and health outcomes for patients with dementia and their caregivers. PMID: 19670955 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696307 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696306&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670956%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: A media campaign aimed at changing patient behavior can contribute to reducing the rate of inappropriate antibiotic use. PMID: 19670956 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696306 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696305&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670957%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Coverage under Part D is comparable to that under non-Part D plans with respect to key features that are likely to be important to Medicare beneficiaries--access to medications and out-of-pocket costs. Nonetheless, concerns remain over drug pricing and gaps in coverage. The government should continue to monitor the competitiveness of the Part D market to ensure it meets the diverse needs of Medicare beneficiaries. PMID: 19670957 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696305 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696304&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670958%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Targeted community outreach services to Medicare Part D beneficiaries can help optimize patient selection of a PDP, thereby resulting in lower out-of-pocket expenditures. PMID: 19670958 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696304 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2696303&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19670959%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Initial introduction of GC into primary care practices may be associated with less use of expensive health services and a net savings in healthcare costs among older patients with several chronic health conditions. Final results from the remaining 2 years of this ongoing study will be published in 2011. PMID: 19670959 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2696303 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2696303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2684288&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19659407%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The use of osteoporosis medication among women with newly diagnosed osteoporosis may be significantly improved by a simple intervention based on monthly telephone follow-up. Overall use of osteoporosis medication in this trial may have been increased by a systemwide initiative to improve osteoporosis care conducted concurrently with the trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00145067.). PMID: 19659407 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2684288 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2684288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591944&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589006%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The use of a MADM may be a beneficial tool to assist in making formulary or preferred therapeutic agent decisions. PMID: 19589006 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591944 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 18:12:03 +0100 2591944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591943&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589007%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Integrated workplace primary care and pharmacy services are one way to increase medication adherence. These services have the potential not only to save healthcare dollars, but also improve the lives of chronically ill patients. PMID: 19589007 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591943 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 18:12:03 +0100 2591943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591942&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589008%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Removing higher potency statins from the formulary did not ignificantly change a population's fasting lipid panel except for a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein. Although multiple factors may have contributed to this effect, the results of this investigation suggest that changing formulary statins will not alter the surrogate lipoprotein markers associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. PMID: 19589008 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591942 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591941&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589009%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The educational intervention did not significantly improve medication compliance or persistence with osteoporosis drugs. PMID: 19589009 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591941 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591940&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589010%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The pairing of automated letters and telephone calls in any order was more effective than any single intervention in promoting compliance with diabetes monitoring tests. The relative cost of the letter-call and call-letter approaches to outreach should be considered to determine which is preferred in any given situation. PMID: 19589010 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591940 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591939&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589011%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare costs among Medicaid beneficiaries with CHF would be lower if more patients were adherent to prescribed medication regimens. Researchers should reconsider whether a binary threshold for adherence is sufficient to examine the association of adherence with outcomes and healthcare costs. PMID: 19589011 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591939 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591938&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589012%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Generic prescribing was associated with modestly improved adherence in 2 of 5 study conditions. Copayments of $0 were associated with improved adherence across all conditions. PMID: 19589012 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591938 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591937&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589013%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The variability in adherence estimates derived from different definitions may substantially impact qualitative conclusions about concurrent adherence to related medications. Because the measures we propose have different underlying assumptions, the choice of technique should depend on why adherence is being evaluated. PMID: 19589013 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591937 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2591937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542791&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514799%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fendrick AM, Chernew ME PMID: 19514799 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542791 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542790&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514800%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Easy Breathing reduced overall costs of care for urban children with asthma of varying severities. If managed care plans held at risk by Medicaid had reimbursed program operating costs for participants in Easy Breathing, they would have experienced a positive ROI. PMID: 19514800 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542790 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542789&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514801%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that tailoring coaching to patients' activation level and using the same metric to track progress improves the outcomes of disease management. PMID: 19514801 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542789 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542788&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514802%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Use of a simple and reliable evaluation of QOL at admission contributed to improved quality of administered care. This approach permits focused management of ongoing problems, close cooperation between caregivers, and a more flexible response to patient needs. PMID: 19514802 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542788 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542787&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514803%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Midlevel providers were significantly less likely than physicians to change BP treatment for diabetic patients with multiple chronic conditions presenting with elevated BP at a single visit. We could not find good explanations for this difference. Given the expanding role of midlevel providers in delivering primary care to complex patients, we need to understand whether these treatment change differences lead to long-term differences in BP control. PMID: 19514803 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542787 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542786&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514804%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: IVRS interventions, which enable patients to interact with computer databases via telephone, have shown a significant benefit in adherence to various processes of care. Future IVRS studies should include clinically relevant outcomes. PMID: 19514804 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542786 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542785&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514805%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Differences in drug formulary use between managed care and nonmanaged care declined from 2000-2001 to 2004-2005. The overall level of drug formulary use increased, reflecting an increase in the nonmanaged care sector. PMID: 19514805 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542785 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542784&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514806%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Patients are more compliant with once-daily compared with twice-daily or thrice-daily treatment regimens. PMID: 19514806 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542784 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542783&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19514807%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: As measured by these scales, integration seems to be related to the presence of practice systems components of the chronic care model, although simply having the potential for integration (structure and finance) is much less strongly related than evidence of functional integration. PMID: 19514807 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542783 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542798&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19415965%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: To improve patient satisfaction, practices should focus on reducing physician workload. Valid measures of patient satisfaction must correct for the strong effects of patient characteristics. PMID: 19415965 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542798 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542797&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435395%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Snow DB PMID: 19435395 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542797 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542796&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435396%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Using the data available to compare strategies to enhance baseline monitoring, direct clinician messaging was not an efficient use of resources. Depending on a decision maker's willingness to pay, automated voice messaging and pharmacy-led efforts can be efficient choices to prompt therapeutic baseline monitoring, but direct clinician messaging is probably a less efficient use of resources. PMID: 19435396 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542796 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542795&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435397%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Eligibility guidelines for diabetes CM were not strictly adhered to in this program. Nevertheless, in a population with improving risk factor control, patients entering CM experienced slightly greater improvement. PMID: 19435397 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542795 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542794&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435398%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Our analysis suggests that all stakeholders--health plans, physicians, and patients--would benefit from health plans collaborating on their P4P efforts to maximize physician participation. PMID: 19435398 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542794 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542793&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435399%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Home telemonitoring of respiratory conditions results in early identification of deteriorations in patient condition and symptom control. Positive patient attitude and receptiveness of this approach are promising. However, evidence on the magnitude of clinical and structural effects remains preliminary, with variations in study approaches and an absence of robust study designs and formal evaluations. Assessment of providers' attitudes toward telemonitoring and its effect on their workload is necessary. PMID: 19435399 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542793 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2542792&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19435400%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: A sizable proportion of standard Medicare Part D drug program beneficiaries reached the DH. Prescription data can help predict the problems beneficiaries enrolled in the standard Medicare Part D drug program might face over time. PMID: 19435400 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2542792 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2542792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320713&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19341315%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The social and communicative strategies used by pharmaceutical companies can be adapted to improve physicians' adoption of guidelines for safer NSAID prescribing. Communicative interactions between local experts and other physicians who prescribe NSAIDs may be the critical target for future interventions to promote safer NSAID prescribing. PMID: 19341315 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320713 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320712&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355793%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: This evaluation suggested that the 2 standardized measures appeared to be valid and reliable as part of routine intake and discharge/follow-up in a large child psychiatry system of care. Whether these measures are truly clinically useful remains to be demonstrated because there is at present no gold standard for assessing the quality of treatment or change caused by it. PMID: 19355793 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320712 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320711&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355794%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Chronic opioid therapy among patients within the Veterans Affairs system is associated with slightly worse diabetes performance measures compared with patients who do not receive opioids. However, patients receiving higher dosages of opioids had additional decrements in diabetes performance measures; these patients may be appropriate targets for interventions to improve their care for pain and diabetes. PMID: 19355794 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320711 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320709&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355795%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The most cost-effective strategy in moderate-to-severe COPD depends on how much society is willing to pay to achieve health improvements. When treatment with as-needed short-acting bronchodilator use does not provide adequate control, salmeterol or SFC would be the drug of choice depending on WTP. PMID: 19355795 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320709 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320708&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355796%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: A proactive and voluntary statin switch program to promote the use of a lower cost generic alternative can be successfully implemented in a fee-for-service health system setting with benefits to patients, providers, and payers. PMID: 19355796 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320708 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320658&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355797%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Contractual arrangements with community physicians were used to augment primary care capacity for uninsured patients. Although per-member hospitalizations and use of the emergency department did not improve for the cohort studied, declines were observed for the program overall when examined by study year. Using community primary care physicians to coordinate care for the uninsured seems to reduce emergency department use and hospitalizations. PMID: 19355797 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320658 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320620&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19355798%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that a strong primary care system is likely to make efforts to improve disease management, but not necessarily efforts to improve delivery of lifestyle interventions. This may be a missed opportunity, given the potential of primary care to influence lifestyle. PMID: 19355798 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320620 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2320620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293914&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298095%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that non-VHA pharmacy benefits affect both the likelihood and magnitude of VHA pharmacy use. This suggests that Medicare pharmacy coverage (Part D) may significantly reduce the demand for VHA pharmacy services, particularly in geographic regions previously underserved by Medicare managed care plans. PMID: 19298095 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293914 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2293914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281642&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298096%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Clinical managers should use IVR systems to collect service histories only after patients are properly trained and responses monitored for consistency and reporting biases. PMID: 19298096 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281642 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281640&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298097%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Participation in the DIS is associated with substantial reductions in claims paid, net of the costs of the intervention. The cost savings reported in the randomized clinical trial of the DIS are reproduced in an independent data set. PMID: 19298097 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281640 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281638&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298098%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Simple restructuring of a computerized order form significantly reduced the number of laboratory tests suspected of being unnecessary or redundant. When overutilization of laboratory resources is suspected, managers should evaluate the efficiency of the organization's current ordering procedures before implementing resource-intensive interventions. PMID: 19298098 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281638 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281636&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298099%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Room for improvement exists for increasing the number of patients who complete an AD or engage in discussion of their wishes. Ways to involve healthcare providers in the process should be explored, as it seems that patients are receptive to physician-initiated discussions of ADs. PMID: 19298099 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281636 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281633&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298100%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Fewer diabetes patients in this study entered the coverage gap than had been previously estimated, but the entry rate was much higher than that of the general Medicare Advantage Part D population. Patients entering the gap had lower subsequent monthly drug expenditures; this may be due to lower-than-expected drug prices and greater use of generics in managed care, or it may potentially signal poorer drug adherence. Future work should examine these hypotheses and explore risk factors for entering the Part D coverage gap. PMID: 19298100 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281633 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281631&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19298101%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Older patients who live alone and are weaker seem to be more likely to forgo continuity with their PCP for the sake of convenience when a barrier to access occurs such as relocation of the physician to a more distant office. PMID: 19298101 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281631 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2281631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2272070&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19284810%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Differences in control and treatment patterns exist in patients with varying levels of glycemic control. Opportunities exist to improve diabetes care through goal attainment. Further research is needed to determine whether specific measures of care correlate with levels of glycemic control. PMID: 19284810 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2272070 Sun, 01 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2272070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2272068&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19284811%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Despite concerns, public reporting of hospital antibiotic timing scores has not led to increased pneumonia diagnosis, antibiotic use, or a change in patient prioritization. PMID: 19284811 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2272068 Sun, 01 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2272068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112827&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146360%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The enormous health burden experienced by older individuals and the disruptions in service utilization reveal the long-term effects of Hurricane Katrina on this vulnerable population. Although quick rebuilding of the provider network may have attenuated more severe health outcomes for this managed care population, new policies must be introduced to deal with the health consequences of a major disaster. PMID: 19146360 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112827 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112826&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146361%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Many antihypertensive prescriptions were not filled. Different types of patient comorbidity may differentially impact prescription filling. Further studies should examine whether these results generalize to other populations. PMID: 19146361 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112826 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112825&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146362%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Reimbursement perception was associated with electrocardiography but not with other commonly performed outpatient procedures. Future research should investigate how associations change with perceived amount of reimbursement and their interactions with other influences on test-ordering behavior such as perceived appropriateness. PMID: 19146362 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112825 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112824&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146363%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Clinically based PMs are a better choice than prior cost alone for programs that seek to identify high-risk groups of patients who are amenable to care management services. PMID: 19146363 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112824 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112823&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146364%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Total costs seem to be lower when substitutive Hospital at Home care is available for patients with congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This result may be related to the study-based requirement for continuous nursing input. Savings may be possible, particularly for care of conditions that typically use substantial laboratory tests and procedures in traditional acute settings. PMID: 19146364 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112823 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112822&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146365%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The MMAS is significantly associated with antihypertensive drug pharmacy refill adherence. Although further validation of the MMAS is needed, it may be useful in identifying low medication adherers in clinical settings. PMID: 19146365 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112822 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112821&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146366%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Available administrative data for a single health plan may provide insufficient information for benchmarking performance for individual physicians. Efforts are needed to develop consensus on assigning measure accountability and to expand information available for each physician, including accessing electronic clinical data, exploring composite measures of performance, and aggregating data across public and private health plans. PMID: 19146366 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112821 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2112820&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19146367%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Polinski JM, Gagne JJ PMID: 19146367 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2112820 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2112820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028991&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067495%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Klepser DG PMID: 19067495 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028991 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028990&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067496%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: For many patients, complications associated with hyperglycemia appear to develop before diabetes diagnosis. Complications add significantly to the cost of medical care at hyperglycemic levels below the threshold for diabetes. However, the increased prevalence of complications did not completely explain the observed differences in age/sex-adjusted medical care costs. PMID: 19067496 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028990 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028989&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067497%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Patient-reported adherence and LAEs were higher than those measured from claims or medical records. Unpleasant taste seems to be associated with lower adherence based on the Morisky scale. PMID: 19067497 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028989 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028988&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067498%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Decreasing statin copayments was associated with adherence increases. However, the overall increase in medication adherence was modest and its clinical significance uncertain. PMID: 19067498 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028988 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028987&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067499%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Given the high cost of many specialty drugs, health plans may rightly focus on making sure only patients who will most benefit receive them. But once such patients are identified, it makes little sense to limit coverage. PMID: 19067499 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028987 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028986&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067500%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: In typical health plan administrative data, most physicians do not have adequate numbers of quality events to support reliable quality measurement. The reliability of quality measures should be taken into account when quality information is used for public reporting and accountability. Efforts to improve data available for physician profiling are also needed. PMID: 19067500 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028986 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028985&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067501%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Cognitive-behavioral and motivational-interviewing techniques can improve antipsychotic medication adherence. Telehealth may be a useful strategy for disseminating these evidence-based techniques. Lessons learned included the importance of real-time referral data, a need to address polypharmacy, and a need to overcome contact difficulties resulting from disease processes and "unknown caller" IDs. Despite these difficulties, using a disease management model, the program was feasible, and the reduced number of ED visits indicated potential cost-effectiveness. PMID: 19067501 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028985 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2028984&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19067502%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Golan-Cohen A, Horn O, Sive PH, Vinker S Two case reports are presented: one of acromegaly and the other of hyperthyroidism. Previous photographs of the patients that appeared in their military medical record were of considerable assistance in making the correct diagnoses. When "smart cards" are issued in the future, inclusion of a photograph as an integral part of the patient's medical information should be considered. PMID: 19067502 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2028984 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2028984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1970334&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19009734%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Crémieux PY, Ghosh A, Yang HE, Buessing M, Buchwald H, Shikora SA PMID: 19009734 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1970334 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1970334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962075&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991476%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Part D lowered elderly patients' OOP costs and increased utilization, primarily during the first year of the program. Magnitudes vary substantially across studies because of differences in data and methods. PMID: 18991476 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962075 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962074&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991477%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Nurses, physicians, and pharmacists who shared their perceptions regarding the effect of nonmedical switching in long-term care settings reported situations in which switching increased administrative time, increased side effects, and appeared to have increased downstream costs to plans. PMID: 18991477 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962074 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962073&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991478%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Beneficiaries need to reevaluate the Part D options available on an annual basis to maintain enrollment with the most appropriate plan available. Although all plans meet the proscribed formulary requirements, some plans offer richer drug coverage with more drugs available on an unrestricted basis. Benchmark plan status allows Part D plans to maintain or gain significant Medicare enrollment from year to year. Careful oversight should be provided to ensure that the level of formulary coverage offered at benchmark and other plans remains consistent. PMID: 18991478 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962073 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962072&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991479%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Thorpe KE PMID: 18991479 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962072 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962071&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991480%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Although the number of studies evaluating drug management programs has trended upward, only a handful have integrated economic, clinical, and/or humanistic outcomes when assessing the effects these programs have on health plans and patients. The efforts of these researchers to assess the overall quality of drug management programs have fallen short. To ensure that drug management tools have a desired effect on outcomes and medical costs, measures used to evaluate drug management programs must be improved. PMID: 18991480 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962071 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962070&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991481%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: For most drugs, Medicaid PDLs are not implemented consistently across states, suggesting that states do not rely on common clinical evidence to make value-based coverage decisions. Greater involvement by the federal government in designing or regulating monopolistic Medicare Part D PDLs may result in similar inconsistencies. PMID: 18991481 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962070 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1962069&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18991482%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Primary care physicians held generally positive but widely varying views of Part D. Respondents expressed concerns about access to prescription drugs under Part D, particularly for dual-eligible enrollees. Improving the transparency and generosity of Part D formulary coverage may improve access. PMID: 18991482 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1962069 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1962069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956196&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999905%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Patients with higher medication burden had greater adherence to newly added LL therapy. Medication burden should not deter clinicians from adding LL therapy. Among patients with added LL therapy, more attention should focus on patients who have changes to their LL regimen compared with patients who continue on the same LL prescription. PMID: 18999905 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956196 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956195&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999906%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The costs of CRC regimens varied considerably. Trends in treatment regimens have changed notably over time, with newer agents and supportive drugs adding substantially to treatment costs. PMID: 18999906 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956195 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956194&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999907%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Even though CDHPs do not appear to foster activation, they may provide a supportive environment for those who are more activated to manage their health. Encouraging enrollment based on enrollee readiness to take advantage of the CDHP environment may be more productive than relying on plan designs alone to activate enrollees once they are enrolled. PMID: 18999907 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956194 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956193&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999908%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Supplementing clinical alerts to physicians with messages directly to their patients produced a statistically significant increase in compliance with the evidence-based guidelines underlying the alerts. PMID: 18999908 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956193 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956192&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999909%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Administrative claims data suggest that members respond to health plan mailings. By mailing information to their members, health plans can affect rates of medical service utilization and generate cost savings. PMID: 18999909 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956192 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956191&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999910%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Bipolar disorder among the working population can have a significant, negative effect on work relationships, attendance, and functioning, which can lead to substantial costs to US employers arising from lost productivity. There is a need for workplace initiatives to address the health and cost consequences of bipolar disorder within an employed population. PMID: 18999910 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956191 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956191 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1956190&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18999911%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Treatment with insulin analogs has been demonstrated to be cost-effective versus other options over time and is an appropriate investment of healthcare dollars. PMID: 18999911 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1956190 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1956190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1860319&cid=s_37392_51_f&fid=37392&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18837641%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: These data strongly suggest that ezetimibe 5 mg and ezetimibe 10 mg are clinically equivalent with respect to LDL-C reduction and achievement of ATP III LDL-C goals. Widespread adoption of this low-dose strategy could result in a potential cost savings of more than a billion dollars annually, with a potential reduction in hepatotoxicity. PMID: 18837641 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Journal of Managed Care) The American Journal of Managed Care journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1860319 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1860319