Paul Downey - Older Americans

The answer is a multi-pronged approach based on a very simple premise:  healthy seniors live happier more productive lives and save tax dollars through reduced healthcare expenditures.   Essentially, mitigating risk factors comes down to education and providing access to building blocks of good health.   The Medicines in Development for Older Americans report clearly shows the importance of educating seniors about the correlations of medication adherence to staying healthy and out of the hospital.  A great example is treatment for solvable conditions such as high cholesterol and the resulting impact on the serious, and costly, consequences of heart disease. The ultimate responsibility for someone’s health is themselves.   That is why knowledge, access to good health practices and a support network are critical if we are to improve patient outcomes.   While the new medications outlined in the report are a critical part of the puzzle, it is imperative that access to other safety-net services like senior nutrition programs, affordable housing, exercise and socialization must be factored in as well.   
Source: PHRMA - Category: Pharmaceuticals Authors: Source Type: news