by James Hubbard, M.D., M.P.H.

“If you want an example of a successful single-payer system, just look at Medicare,” many say.

I say, not really.

A single-payer system is the form of universal health-care Canada and Great Britain use.  Several groups are advocating for it.  People on the right tend to view it as socialized medicine at its worst. Many on the left think it’s ideal. President Obama has tried to distance himself–and his plan–from it, frustrating some Democrats.

With Medicare, the government is the single payer.  And it’s worked so well, some say, why not just extend it to all?

The problem is, Medicare is not working well. The reason it’s been somewhat successful is it has been subsidized, in an indirect way, by private insurers.

(more…)

by Leigh Ann Otte, managing editor

My Family Doctor has learned that Boniva and Tamiflu are no longer covered by the recently announced Medicare-discount agreement.  Whether their manufacturer Roche Pharmaceuticals will instate its own discount is unclear.

On June 20, the powerful trade group Pharmaceutical Researchers and Manufacturers of America made big news, announcing their members would offer a 50-percent discount to most people in the dreaded Medicare Part D doughnut hole. But today, the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest reported Roche is leaving PhRMA.

My Family Doctor asked Roche whether they would still offer the discount. (more…)

by Leigh Ann Hubbard, managing editor

In an interesting turn of events, relief is coming for seniors. Drug manufacturers are going to help pay for some medicines!

This sounds great, definitely, but we want to know from you: How much will it really help?

The News
Today, President Obama and industry trade group Pharmaceutical Researchers and Manufacturers of America announced a big deal, part of which involves the dreaded Medicare Part D doughnut hole.

(more…)

by James Hubbard, M.D., M.P.H.

Health-care rationing is coming, but what form will it take?  Limiting by age?  Predicted life expectancy?  And who will make these decisions?

Two recent medical review studies give us a glimpse into the future. (more…)

by James Hubbard, M.D., M.P.H.

Do you understand Medicare Part D? Do you even know what it is? How about your elderly loved ones?

Medicare open enrollment starts November 15 and ends December 31. During this time every year, Medicare participants can change or tweak their Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plan.  Start early so everything is in place by the time the new coverage kicks in on January 1.

If you’re under Medicare age, consider helping loved ones with their decision.  There are several options and it can get complicated.

Here’s some help to get you started.

(more…)