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State-level pharmaceutical assistance programs for the elderly: a national survey.
1Medicine, Health, and Aging Project, Pennsylvania State University, College of Health and Human Development, University Park 16802.
American Journal of Public Health
|February 1, 1988
Summary
State pharmaceutical assistance programs for seniors show significant variation in design and policy approaches. This lack of uniformity impacts program development and implementation strategies nationwide.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Public Policy
- Gerontology
Background:
- State-level pharmaceutical assistance programs are crucial for elderly populations.
- Understanding program variations is key to effective policy development.
- The Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) Program serves as a case study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a national context for the PACE Program.
- To identify and analyze state-level pharmaceutical assistance programs.
- To examine program characteristics and policy issue engagement.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide mail survey was conducted.
- Telephone follow-up was performed with State Unit Directors on Aging.
- Data focused on seven state-level programs operational in fiscal year 1984-85.
Main Results:
- Ten state-level pharmaceutical assistance programs were identified.
- Significant variation exists among programs regarding characteristics and policy engagement.
- Non-program states showed legislative interest and fiscal concerns.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight a lack of uniformity in state pharmaceutical assistance programs.
- Implications for program development and implementation are significant.
- Guidance is offered for identifying optimal program and policy combinations.