Back to Annual Meeting

Back to Annual Meeting

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Jack H. Fyock, PhD, Government, Foundation, and Academic Research, Market Strategies, 1725 Duke Street, Suite 530, Alexandria, VA 22314, 703.229-5206, jack_fyock@marketstrategies.com and Ellen Gordon, PhD, Global Life Sciences, Market Strategies, 1725 Duke Street, Suite 530, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Initial enrollment in Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) has been less than expected. While attention has focused on overall numbers, there is little discussion of what drives early enrollers versus those who may enroll and those who will not enroll. In addition, how has existing Rx coverage or lack of prior Rx coverage impacted decisions and what key issues affect a decision to enroll? This study explores choices beneficiaries are making and examines factors associated with the decision to enroll. We completed 1,308 telephone interviews with beneficiaries near the start of the program. A second survey will occur in March and a third in May focusing on satisfaction measures. Findings from these three waves will be presented at APHA. Based on wave one, many beneficiaries lack motivation to enroll. While over 70% of all beneficiaries are aware of the benefit, dual eligible beneficiaries and those resistant to join are both least aware of and most negative toward PDPs. Also, Dual Eligible beneficiaries and those who were enrolled in a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program report limited understanding of the program. Finally, a large group of “fence sitters” lack information needed to make a final decision. Lack of understanding rises with resistance to joining a plan and among subsidy eligible beneficiaries. Yet, approval of Part D does not appear necessary since many who have enrolled hold negative attitudes toward the benefit. Those who do not intend to enroll in a PDP are extremely negative and may need alternative messaging strategies.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• List at least five indicators that impact enrollment in a Medicare PDP.
• Recognize why enrollment in Medicare PDPs has been mixed and how beneficiaries differ in their attitudes.
• Develop outreach materials that effectively resonant with the needs of Medicare beneficiaries who have not enrolled in a Medicare PDP.

Keywords: Medicare/Medicaid, Healthcare Costs

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation