Clip files / Local news from the states
This column features selected short items about state health care policy.
Arizona governor starts discount drug program
PHOENIX—Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano has launched a program that could let nearly 600,000 seniors and disabled Arizonans use a discount card to buy prescription drugs at cheaper prices. A network of pharmacies across Arizona would agree to sell drugs at a reduced cost negotiated by the state. Arizonans 65 years or older would pay a $25 annual fee. Ms. Napolitano said about 570,000 seniors would be eligible for the program, which could be running by the end of April. "This is a free-market-based program," said Tim Nelson, Napolitano’s adviser on prescription drugs.
Several details still have to be worked out, but it’s estimated that seniors could get a 20% discount. Mr. Nelson said seniors should be able to comparison shop for prescription drugs just like they can compare gasoline prices. Ms. Napolitano, a Democrat, kick-started the program with an executive order, bypassing the Republican-controlled legislature.
Last year, a similar idea died in the legislature because lawmakers balked at an estimated $1 million start-up cost. Ms. Napolitano said that her program would cost the state nothing and that the $25 enrollment fee would cover the costs.
—Arizona Republic, Jan. 8, 2003
Children’s advocacy group gives Nevada poor marks
LAS VEGAS—Nevada ranks among the nation’s worst states for the quality of health care, education, and social services provided to its children, according to a new report. The Children’s Advocacy Alliance, in its annual report card, gave Fs to Nevada in its suicide and drug-use rates, lack of prenatal care, large numbers of uninsured children, high rates of teen pregnancy, and high school dropouts. "That places Nevada in the company of such states as Louisiana, Mississippi and New Mexico, . . . all states with much higher numbers of children living in poverty," according to the report released by the Henderson-based organization. This isn’t the first time Nevada has received poor marks in the annual report card. Alliance officials said the state has shown so little progress for so long that they plan to delay the next report card for Nevada until 2005.
—Associated Press, Jan. 10, 2003
Arizona governor starts discount drug program; Childrens advocacy group gives Nevada poor marks.You have reached your article limit for the month. Subscribe now to access this article plus other member-only content.
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