Humana V-BID trial in COPD patients
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant health concern, particularly among older adults enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. High out-of-pocket costs and improper inhaler use are common barriers that prevent effective management of COPD, leading to poor health outcomes and increased healthcare spending.
A recent randomized clinical trial, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, explored the impact of a national program aimed at reducing these barriers. The study included over 19,000 Medicare Advantage beneficiaries with COPD and assessed the effects of reducing cost sharing for maintenance inhalers and providing medication management services.
The intervention led to a significant 55% increase in inhaler adherence. Additionally, participants experienced an average reduction of $203 in out-of-pocket prescription costs. However, the study found no significant impact on reducing COPD exacerbations or achieving cost savings for Humana, the payer implementing the program.
Recommendations for Future Research:
Future research need to measure the costs associated with implementing similar programs, enabling a comprehensive calculation of return on investment (ROI). By capturing both the direct costs of program delivery and any indirect costs, researchers can provide more actionable insights for decision-makers. This approach will help determine the financial viability of such interventions and guide insurers and healthcare providers in making informed decisions about adopting and scaling similar programs. Understanding the cost-effectiveness alongside clinical outcomes will make the results more applicable to real-world healthcare strategies.
Reference:
Agarwal, S.D., Metzler, E., Chernew, M., Thomas, E., Press, V.G., Boudreau, E., Powers, B.W. and McWilliams, J.M., Reduced Cost Sharing and Medication Management Services for COPD: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Internal Medicine.