American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
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The practice of blood conservation is aimed at improving patient outcomes by avoiding allogeneic transfusions via a coordinated multidisciplinary, multipronged approach. The numerous blood conservation techniques and transfusion alternatives now available are described. ⋯ Initiating a blood management program requires planning and support from those who are concerned about blood usage reduction and outcomes improvement. Launching a vigorous and ongoing educational program to raise awareness about the risks and hazards associated with blood transfusion is an important step in helping to reshape the medical staffs' attitudes about transfusion and the most cost-effective way to achieve clinical goals.
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Aug 2007
ReviewTrends in the prescription drug plans delivering the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit.
The potential impact of the Democrat-proposed Medicare drug program reform plan; possible Congressional actions in 2007; the standard Medicare prescription drug benefit; the use of low-income subsidies (LIS); and trends in 2006 and 2007 Medicare prescription drug plan (PDP) offerings, coverage, deductibles, premiums, cost-sharing practices, and utilization management strategies are described. ⋯ The PDPs delivering the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit have been and continue to be subject to change. High Medicare prices and a lack of gap coverage for enrollees remain concerns that may be addressed by Congressional action in 2007.