40 Million Americans Not Filling Their Prescriptions

Nearly 40 million U.S. adults decided not to fill a prescription medication from a doctor in the past year because of the cost. Ask your patients if they are filling and taking their medications.

A study found that women and patients with neurological and mental health conditions were the most likely to give up their medication due to cost.

For those struggling to afford healthcare, online channels have become increasingly important resources. Over 145 million consumers are online for health, and this year’s Cybercitizen Health™ study saw the Internet surpass doctors as the top source for obtaining health and medical information.

Top Condition Groups Who Report Not Filling a Prescription Because of the Cost

1. Fibromyalgia
2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
3. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
4. Chronic Bronchitis
5. Chronic Pain
6. Acute Pain
7. Adult ADHD
8. Anxiety Disorder/Social Phobia
9. Bipolar Disorder
10. Depression

“Healthcare costs and accessibility are major barriers for Americans, and many are turning to the Internet as an alternative resource for managing their health and making treatment decisions,” said Meredith Abreu Ressi, Vice President of Research at Manhattan Research. “While the Internet is an invaluable health resource for patient education and support, it doesn’t replace the expertise of a trained medical professional. Healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and other organizations can use online media to inform consumers of the importance of professional medical attention to their long-term health and to raise awareness of patient assistance programs.”

Source: Manhattan Research a leading market research and advisory services firm for global pharmaceutical and healthcare companies