…Wielding its power as one of the largest purchasers of medications in the United States, the V.A. has made it possible for millions of veterans to pay just $7 for up to a 30-day prescription. Thousands are signing up for the program every month.
Yet for all its apparent success, lawmakers have disregarded the V.A. model — and others like it that use the government’s immense power to negotiate lower prices — as they try to give older Americans relief from rising drug costs while reshaping how the elderly get medical services.
[snip]
In 2000, the National Academy of Sciences found that the V.A.’s methods had achieved nearly $100 million in savings over the previous two years.
But Congress decided not to adopt the V.A.’s approach; in fact, it was not seriously considered.
Does this make any sense? Every time I’ve ever priced out anything, I’ve looked at comparables. What could be more comparable to a prescription drug benefit within Medicare than the Veterans Administration system?
I think Congress is loony.
I am covered by prescription drug plans from both my employer and that of my wifes.
Is there any reason why I should investigate the VA drug plan?
That’s like arguing that your benefits manager at your firm shouldn’t bother pricing out health plans since he/she is covered by one already. The responsibility is for all the people in the firm.