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Seeking help for depression is finally losing some of its stigma. The National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems (NAPHS) 2001 Annual Survey Report, "Trends in Behavioral Healthcare Systems," says both hospital occupancy and outpatient visits for behavioral health problems increased 11% and nearly 12%, respectively, between 1999 and 2000.

Washington, D.C. - Health plans and payers will save money inthe long run if they spend more on newer medicines that can keep patientshealthy and lower healthcare expenditures overall. That's the conclusionof several economists at a recent briefing hosted by the American EnterpriseInstitute and the National Pharmaceutical Council.

Examining PBMs

PBMs redefine their role in the wake of class-action lawsuits and a slightly skeptical payer community

Pleading for reason

Health plans demand outcomes-based evidence to support reference pricing for new drug therapies.

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-The Nov. 20 issue of Health Care News reported an alarmingstatistic: 22% of all adults neglected to fill at least one prescriptionlast year due to cost. Harris Interactive's nationwide telephone surveyof 1,010 adults, conducted in June 2001, revealed the fact, which affectsthe well-being of our nation's population, as well as its economy.

Gathering Forces

With a virtual epidemic of diabetes threatening the U.S., it's time for new and improved management approaches.

The September terrorist attacks and the subsequent anthrax scare haveprompted managed care organizations, healthcare providers and governmentagencies to expand emergency preparedness efforts and reevaluate policiesand programs. Stung by criticism of its confusing response to the bioterrorismthreat, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has created anew Office of Preparedness and brought in new infectious disease and vaccineexperts to rescue the situation.

Many employers are concerend about increased spending for prescription drugs. The panel discussed the rationale for expenditures and the effectiveness of controls, especially forumularies.

New guidelines from the National Cholesterol Education Program suggest more aggresive treatment of many more people.

Lifestyle changes are effective but very hard to achieve. Medication works, but patient compliance with treatment regimens is far from guaranteed.