A recent study in the U.K demonstrates that interventions by a pharmacist, as part of a health team, significantly improve results for patients with poorly controlled Type II diabetes. The pharmacist intervention consisted of a one hour education and medications management visit and monthly follow-up telephone contact that emphasized self-care screening for complications and proper use of medications. Status updates through periodic reviews were provided to physicians.

Spending on health care for people with chronic diseases accounts for 75 percent of America’s total health care costs. Chronic diseases also account for seven out of every ten deaths. As baby boomers move through middle age the prevalence of chronic conditions is increasing markedly. From 2000 to the 2004, the number of American adults diagnosed with high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis and diabetes has grown at a rate two to three times total population growth.

As America’s population ages, the prevalence of chronic conditions is growing dramatically. This means that growth in health care expenditures will continue to outpace normal inflationary spending growth. Managing chronic conditions in ways that avoid or reduce disability and institutionalization are essential in allowing America’s seniors to live independently and in ensuring the future financial sustainability of publicly funded health benefit programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

The population is aging and with that comes an increased prevalence of chronic conditions. But an aging population does not have to become a disabled population. The proper management of chronic conditions can reduce disability and allow an aging population to remain active and enjoy a good quality of life. Research funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) shows that patient education, proper management of symptoms and better adherence to medication regimens can reduce disability and control health care costs.