MS pharmacists get Medicaid reimbursement

This time around, pharmacists will make money because the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) has agreed to establish a payment system for pharmacists caring for Medicaid patients in Mississippi.

Established under the existing "other licensed practitioner" language in HCFA's Medicaid reimbursement system, the Mississippi program will reimburse pharmacists providing clinical care for diabetes, asthma, anticoagulation, and hyperlipidemia.

Pharmacists will be paid on the same level as physicians, about $20 to $25 per office visit in Mississippi.

Participating pharmacists must set up a system that specifies services like blood tests, counseling, and referrals while complying with existing claims documenting and fee schedules.