Economic data shows cost-effectiveness of statins and antihypertensive drugs for cardiovascular disease in low-income populations
New research demonstrates that a cardiovascular polypill, combining a statin with 3 half doses of antihypertensive medications, offers a cost-effective solution for managing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the majority of Black and low-income populations, addressing disparities important in terms of health. Using a computer simulation model, researchers analyzed the impact of the polypill on healthcare costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and cost-effectiveness, finding that it This is a high-value intervention at $8,560 per QALY gained and potentially cost-effective if priced. at $443 per year. The simplified regimen could improve medication adherence and reduce income and race-related disparities in cardiovascular disease outcomes, particularly for populations facing systemic and economic barriers to care. Although the polypill includes generic components, no pharmaceutical company has sought FDA approval, and its generic status excludes it from Medicare price negotiations under current policies.
Nearly a third of Americans face unregulated contaminants in water
Findings from the Silent Spring Institute reveal that nearly a third of Americans have been exposed to unregulated contaminants in drinking water, with significant racial disparities disproportionately affecting Hispanic and Black communities. The study analyzed EPA data from 2013 to 2015 and found detectable levels of harmful chemicals, including PFAS, 1,4-dioxane and other toxins, in 27% of public water systems. water supply serving 97 million people. These communities are more likely to live near sources of pollution such as industrial sites and wastewater treatment plants, with systemic issues such as racism and historical oversights contributing to the disparities. The findings underscore the need for stronger federal regulations to combat widespread water contamination because current standards fail to account for thousands of potentially harmful chemicals.
Building Trust Through Community Engagement in Cancer Care
In the second part of an interview at an Institute for Value-Based Medicine® event, Karen Winkfield, MD, PhD, highlighted the need for health systems to move beyond a universal and ensure meaningful accessibility for underserved communities. . As executive director of the Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance, Winkfield highlighted the systemic barriers faced by marginalized groups, including socioeconomic challenges and language barriers, that hinder access to care. She called for cultural humility, relationship building and community engagement among healthcare professionals to build trust and address disparities. Winkfield also urged researchers to communicate the relevance of their work in ways that resonate with the public, especially as taxpayer funding supports these efforts. She emphasized the importance of representing institutions as trusted partners through education and outreach, ensuring that healthcare innovations equitably benefit all populations.
Increased interest in early benefits and over-the-counter medical abortion
Growing interest and support for Advance Benefit (AP) and over-the-counter (OTC) medical abortion as viable options for abortion care was observed in a recent assessment of trends following the Dobbs decision. Research has found increased public interest in these models, particularly among marginalized groups in states with restrictive abortion laws, rural areas, and those facing barriers to care. AP allows patients to receive abortifacient medications in advance for future use, while OTC allows individuals to obtain the medications without a prescription, providing privacy, convenience, and faster access to care. However, concerns remain about abuse, lack of guidance and coercion. Researchers are calling for more policy support, insurance coverage and product approval to ensure equitable access to these models of care.
Disparities in Telehealth Access Harm Adoption Among Patients With Schizophrenia
Rapid adoption of telemental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic has been significant, but among New York State Medicaid beneficiaries with schizophrenia, racial and ethnic disparities in access have been identified . While 95% of mental health agencies quickly integrated telemental health services, minority groups, including Black, Asian, and Latino people, experienced slower access to initial visits than white beneficiaries. These disparities narrowed during periods of increased pandemic severity but persisted overall, with public agencies leading adoption thanks to better resources. Experts have noted that telemental health care, while widely used, is not universally ideal due to barriers such as housing instability and access to technology. The study calls on states to monitor and address inequities, prioritize vulnerable populations, and consider financial incentives to improve adoption by low-performing agencies.