Julie M. Donohue, PhD

This study shows that generic initiation improves adherence to antidepressant therapy among Medicare patients and mitigates the negative effects of the Part D coverage gap.

High-risk drug use increased slightly among seniors gaining Medicare Part D coverage; however, high-risk drugs account for a small share of total drug use.

Substantial variation in prescription spending and use of brand-name drugs exists across the VA healthcare system, with no apparent relationship to quality of care.