Eighty-five percent of seniors say they are satisfied with Medicare Part D plans that offer preferred pharmacy networks. They cite lower costs, convenient access to pharmacies, as well as other benefits, according to a survey from Hart Research Associates by the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA). More than 40% of Part D seniors are enrolled in plans with preferred networks. Eighty percent of those in preferred pharmacy plans say they would be very upset if their plan were no longer available.
“Seniors see Medicare Part D preferred networks as a ‘win-win’ because they offer good value without sacrificing access to convenient pharmacies,” said Geoffrey Garin, president of Hart Research Associates.
The study also reveals the following:
• The cost of premiums (50%) and copays (48%) are the most important considerations for seniors in selecting their preferred pharmacy plan.
• Seniors are very satisfied with the convenience of pharmacies (81%), the number of pharmacies in their network (74%), and the prescription medications available through their plan (75%).
• Cost is the top factor for seniors regardless of income, age, number of medications, and distance from their drugstore.
• Only 8% listed the number of pharmacies in the network as an important consideration.
For more information, visit www.pcmanet.org.
