May is Older Americans Month. This event, led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), recognizes the contributions of older adults. This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on empowering older adults to take control of their health and advocate for themselves. It also highlights prevention and wellness as the foundation of healthy aging. We recognize the work you do for your patients and encourage you to use this special month to inform them about the assi

Check out the latest issue of our newsletter for educational insights on common Medicare marketing violations, the pharmacist’s role in preventive care and management, fun trivia questions, and available CE articles.

Federal prosecutors recently charged eight individuals—including three nurses, a chiropractor, and a person posing as a psychologist—in a major California hospice fraud scheme involving millions of dollars in Medicare billing for patients who were not terminally ill. This case is a reminder that Medicare fraud remains a persistent issue and that perpetrators continue to be caught and held accountable. We encourage pharmacists to stay vigilant, double‑check prescription claims

Shingles is a common condition, affecting about 1 in 3 U.S. adults. It typically presents as a painful, itchy, and tingling rash and can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and long-term nerve pain in the area where the rash occurs. The good news is that an effective vaccine is available. Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. It is recommended as a two-dose series, 2–6 months apart, for adults aged 50 and older. Patients

March is National Kidney Month, a great reminder for pharmacists to check in with older adults about their kidney health. People aged 60 and above, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease, are at higher risk. When kidneys are compromised, it affects more than just filtration. Chronic kidney disease can raise the risk of heart problems, weaken bones, and even lead to kidney failure. Pharmacists can play a big role here by havi

Diabetes Self‑Management Education and Support (DSMES) is an evidence‑based program that gives people with diabetes the tools they need to manage their condition day to day. It connects patients with certified diabetes care and education specialists who teach practical skills and help them build a personalized care plan. DSMES can make a real difference. It helps improve blood sugar, lowers the chance of hospital visits, reduces complications, and even cuts overall diabetes‑r

Pharmacists play an important role in protecting both patients and the healthcare system from Medicare fraud. Stay alert for unusual billing patterns, suspicious prescriptions, or requests for medications or services that seem fraudulent or medically unnecessary. If something doesn’t seem right, take a moment to verify the information and follow your pharmacy’s reporting procedures. You can also report suspected fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Remaining vigilant is important

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum, is currently the leading cause of cancer-related death among Americans under age 50. It is estimated that about one in five cases occurs in individuals younger than 55. Screening plays a critical role in prevention and early detection. When performed early enough, colonoscopy can detect cancer and remove precancerous polyps before they become malignant. Screening has contributed

Medication adherence plays a huge role in health outcomes for older adults, yet many struggle with complex regimens, memory changes, side effects, or simply managing multiple prescriptions. Pharmacists are in a great position to help because we see older adults often and can spot challenges early. A few simple strategies can make a real difference. Using clear, plain‑language counseling helps patients understand what each medication does and how to take it. For example, “Take

Last week, the federal government launched TrumpRx.gov , a new platform offering cash‑pay discounts on select brand‑name medications from participating manufacturers— Pfizer, AstraZeneca, EMD Serono, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. The site currently lists discounted prices for 40 drugs (e.g. Ozempic, Ovidrel, Insulin Lispro etc) and allows patients to generate coupons they can use at the pharmacy. To access some discounts, patients must confirm that they are paying cash and are