LUGPA Supports Policies for Easier Patient Access to In-Office Medication

Chicago, IL, August 1, 2024 – To ensure optimal health outcomes, individuals must have convenient, timely and consistent access to treatment. In-office pharmaceutical dispensing (IOD) is a service that allows patients to receive prescription and over-the-counter drugs directly from their physicians, eliminating the need for separate pharmacy visits and enhancing treatment access. LUGPA is advocating for key policies to expand access to IOD, an essential component of high-quality, cost-effective patient care.

Many people face obstacles to consistently complying with treatment plans, such as transportation, busy schedules and wait times for prescription fills. According to one study by the CDC, 1 in 5 prescriptions are never filled. Non-adherence to treatment plans can result in adverse health outcomes and increased health care costs. By streamlining coordination with physicians and ensuring timely use of treatments, IOD supports patients so they can adhere to treatments successfully and attain positive health outcomes.

Despite the benefits of IOD, challenges persist for many physicians and patients. Currently, IODs are permitted under a temporary waiver. However, Congress has taken a recent interest in creating permanent protections for these services. For example, The Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act of 2023 (H.R. 5526) would expand access to IODs by allowing Medicare patients to receive medications by mail and by allowing family members or caregivers to pick up medications on behalf of patients.

“As physicians, we understand the importance of consistent and convenient access to treatment in enhancing health outcomes,” said Evan Goldfischer, M.D., president of LUGPA. “In-office dispensing services play a crucial role in improving this access, offering more convenient and coordinated treatment. We strongly encourage Congress to safeguard these services, which ultimately lower U.S. health care costs and support the health of all patients.”

Americans can contact their Congressional representatives and let them know they support policies that provide them with high-quality, cost-effective care. To find your Congressional representative, visit https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.  

About LUGPA 

LUGPA is the only nonprofit urology trade association in the US. Since its founding in 2008, LUGPA has earned national recognition in the pursuit of its mission to preserve and advance the independent practice of urology while demonstrating quality and value to patients, vendors, third-party payors, legislators and regulatory agencies. The robust resources LUGPA provides help member groups to meet the challenges of independent practice in today's rapidly changing health care marketplace. For more information, visit www.lugpa.org 

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