Medicare Monday: Growing Body of Research Finds Reduced Mortality After Part D

New research from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign adds to a growing body of literature that finds the implementation of Medicare Part D has played a role in reducing mortality among the elderly. The new research expands upon previous examinations showing improved access to prescription medicines as a result of the Part D program has helped save lives.

Key findings from the new research include:

• The implementation of Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit was followed by a 2.2 percent annual reduction in mortality among seniors.
• The reduction was due primarily to a 4.4 percent reduction in cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death for the elderly.
• Medicare Part D improved access to drug treatments for cardiovascular disease.
• The reduction in elderly mortality attributed to Medicare Part D is worth about $5 billion per year savings for the program.

Medicare Part D continues to offer affordable access to prescription drug coverage for older and disabled Americans. The growing body of research highlighting improved health outcomes and reduced mortality demonstrates how Part D helps America’s seniors live longer, healthier lives.