Impact of the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act on the management of colorectal cancer.
OBJECTIVE
The potential impact of changes in reimbursement for drugs and biologicals associated with the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act (MMA) on the management of colorectal cancer is described from the perspectives of health care providers and patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The introduction of new chemotherapeutic agents and supportive therapies over the past several decades has increased survival in patients with colorectal cancer. The changes in reimbursement for these therapies associated with MMA may affect the financial viability of private physician office practices and hospital-based outpatient clinics where such therapies are administered. The MMA-related changes also have the potential to decrease patient access to treatment and adversely affect treatment choices, scheduling, and outcomes.


CONCLUSIONS
The reimbursement changes brought about by implementation of MMA could affect health care delivery and patient care.
Siegel
Jerry
J
The Ohio State University Medical Center, 410 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. jerry.siegel@osumc.edu
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007356:Insurance, Pharmaceutical Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006278:Medicare / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D012051:Reimbursement Mechanisms; D014481:United States
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents