Medtrade Attendance Drops 20%

The 29th Annual Medtrade Conference and Expo was held in late October at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Medtrade officials this week reported attendance of nearly 10,500 at this year’s show, a dip of almost 20 percent from last year. Officials said the attendance dip reflects the industry and economic conditions, and general trends from all trade shows.

Nonetheless, the “baby boomers” are not getting any younger. They, and their caregivers, will need your services to stay well and in the homes and communities they cherish. So, stay efficient and recognize this economic downturn for the inevitable opportunity it will be.

A Little Light Reading

There are two great articles in the November issue of America 's Pharmacist magazine related to DMEPOS accreditation and competitive bidding.

One is "Fact Versus Fiction" by Harry A. Lattanzio, R.Ph., of PRS Pharmacy Services (page 34). In this one, Harry sets the record straight on accreditation requirements.

The other article is Jeffrey S. Baird's "Rx Law" column on the future of competitive bidding (page 51).

These articles are also accessible to NCPA members online at www.americaspharmacist.net.

Pre-diabetes on the Rise

A CDC analysis of data on 24,000 U.S. adults found that more than 25% of Americans have pre-diabetes, but only 4% were aware of their condition. Researchers said more awareness about pre-diabetes could help people make healthier lifestyle choices and reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

It’s all about drug cost containment and preventative care! Are you doing your part?

Doom and Gloom from Weems: Medicaid Spending Spirals Out of Control

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) warned policymakers late Friday that Medicaid spending is projected to grow much faster than the economy over the next 10 years. With expenditures headed toward $5 trillion over the decade, agency officials said, now is the time to rein in costs. “This is an urgent reminder that the current spending path of Medicaid is unsustainable,” said Kerry Weems, CMS acting administrator.

Pharmacists are not responsible for the spiraling costs, but it is imperative we all do our part, whenever possible, to contain drug costs.