Summary

The document discusses the impact of reducing out-of-pocket costs for preventive services related to high blood pressure and high cholesterol on cardiovascular disease prevention. It presents findings that reducing patient costs for medications and services was associated with improvements in medication adherence as well as blood pressure and cholesterol outcomes. The economic evidence showed a decrease in healthcare costs when out-of-pocket costs were reduced for patients. The document also highlights the need for further research into the effectiveness of these interventions and strategies to promote covered benefits to patients and providers.

Key Points

• Reducing out-of-pocket costs for preventive services related to high blood pressure and high cholesterol can improve medication adherence and health outcomes.
• The economic evidence suggests a decrease in healthcare costs when out-of-pocket costs for patients are lowered.
• Future research is needed to assess the effectiveness of interventions like reducing costs for behavioral support services independent of medications.
• Strategies to enhance patient-provider interaction, such as medication counseling and patient education, can be beneficial when combined with reducing out-of-pocket costs.
• Policy changes and program implementations should focus on promoting covered services to increase awareness and usage.