Original Research
Saturday, November 11, 2023
11:30 AM–01:00 PM
Abstract
Introduction: Affordability of diabetic medications is recognized as a consistent barrier associated with poor patient outcomes. Clinical pharmacists working in outpatient clinics can improve medication access for a subset of low-income patients through enrollment in patient assistance programs (PAP).
Research Question or Hypothesis: Does the usage of PAP impact patient accessibility of diabetes medications to meet American Diabetes Association Standards of Care goals?
Study Design: Pharmacists aided eligible patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to enroll in PAP from at least one of five different pharmaceutical companies enabling access to an SGLT2 inhibitor, GLP-1 receptor agonist and/or insulin. Patients sought assistance to 1) continue a medication no longer affordable for them (Existing Medication - EM), 2) start a new unaffordable medication (New Medication – NM) or 3) both continue an existing medication and start new medication concurrently (New and Existing Medication – NEM).
Methods: Retrospective chart reviews were conducted for each group to collect the primary objective measure of A1c reduction at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after being enrolled in the PAP. Secondary outcomes explored number of cardiovascular protective medications, renal protective medications, hypoglycemic potential medications, and weight changes.
Results: The cohort included 59 patients averaging 69 years old with a baseline A1c of 8.5% and taking approximately twelve total (including two diabetes specific) medications at baseline. The average mean change from baseline A1c to 12 months was -0.9%, -2.27%, and -0.98% for the EM, NM, and NEM groups respectively. All groups were associated with increased use of cardiovascular and renal protective medications, reduced usage of hypoglycemic potential medications and decrease in weight.
Conclusion: Utilizing PAP to improve patient access to costly diabetes medications enables better outcomes as shown by significantly improved A1c levels. Pharmacists involved in diabetes management clinics should consider this benefit when assessing patient barriers to care.
Presenting Author
Maria Cherry PharmD CandidateMidwestern University
Authors