National Medical Association Advocates Changes in Health Plans

7/22/2003

From: Mary Ann M. Pagaduan of the American Osteopathic Assn., 312-202-8040 or 800-621-1773, ext. 8040

CHICAGO, Ill., July 22 -- Recently, the American Osteopathic Association's (AOA) House of Delegates voted to support changes in health plan coverage related to prescription drugs and the treatment of obesity.

-- As some insurance companies and managed care organizations market their prescription plans without disclosing restrictions and limitations to these plans, the AOA urged state legislatures to mandate using the term "limited prescription plan" or similar terminology in marketing efforts. However, if the plans pay for all prescription medications currently recognized by the FDA as safe and effective, this terminology would not be needed.

-- With more than 25 percent of adult Americans now considered obese, the AOA recommended that all health plans cover nutritional counseling and physical conditioning in the effort to prevent and treat obesity.

The AOA's House of Delegates, comprised of more than 500 osteopathic physicians (D.O.s) and osteopathic medical students from across the country, meets annually in July to set organizational policies and elect new officers.

The AOA represents approximately 49,000 osteopathic physicians (D.O.s), promotes public health, encourages scientific research, serves as the primary certifying body for D.O.s, and is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools and health care facilities.