Impact of Medicare Part D on Antidepressant Treatment, Medication Choice, and Adherence Among Older Adults With Depression

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Depression in older adults is often undertreated due, in part, to medication costs. We examined the impact of improved prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D on use of antidepressants, medication choice, and adherence. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Observational claims-based study of older adults with depression (ICD-9: 296.2, 296.3, 311, 300.4) continuously enrolled in a Medicare managed care plan between 2004 and 2007. Three groups with limited ($150 or $350 quarterly caps) or no drug coverage in 2004-2005 obtained Part D benefits in 2006. A comparison group had stable employer-sponsored coverage throughout. MEASUREMENTS: Any antidepressant prescription fi..