Re: “An obvious fix for Medicare,” June 6 editorial (reprinted from Bloomberg View).
While I understand the importance of balancing the budget and maintaining the sustainability of Medicare, the model referenced in this editorial could do more harm than good. The proposal interrupts the existing framework for drug therapies that must be administered by a medical professional. That in turn could reduce the ability of providers, especially those in community-based and rural care settings, to acquire medicines covered by Medicare Part B. Ultimately, some practices — especially those in rural areas — could have to downsize or shut their doors permanently. The net effect would be to reduce patient access to critical drug therapies, either forcing patients to travel further for care, or potentially undermining patient treatment plans altogether if they cannot access the therapies they depend on. As a survivor of cancer myself, I know first hand how important it is for patients to adhere to treatment regimens to prevent complications.
Rep. Dianne Primavera, Broomfield
The writer is chair of the state House Public Health and Human Services Committee.
Submit a letter to the editor via or check out our for how to submit by e-mail or mail.
