Laying the Groundwork for a Prescription Drug Benefit: Congressional Hearing on Medicare Reform

Abstract

Patients with pain and other symptoms associated with chronic disease often require potent medications for alleviation of their distress. Use of such drugs is a double edged sword. The potency and activity of these medications accounts for their effectiveness, but it also presents risk of adverse events. Epidemiological and adverse event research is continually demonstrating the need for improved medication monitoring systems to improve risk: benefit rations.