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Medicare Wasted $3 Billion on Unneeded Drug Refills

12/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Wall Street Journal reported that Medicare wasted $3 billion on unnecessary drug refills from 2021 to 2023.
Relaxed refill restrictions during the pandemic led to excess prescriptions, especially via mail-order pharmacies, which comprised 37% of the excess.
Experts warn these practices raise the risk of medication errors among seniors.
UnitedHealth and Humana say they improved refill protocols to prevent stockpiling and enhance safety.

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Story summary

The Wall Street Journal reported that Medicare wasted $3 billion on unnecessary drug refills from 2021 to 2023.
Relaxed refill restrictions during the pandemic led to excess prescriptions, especially via mail-order pharmacies, which comprised 37% of the excess.
Experts warn these practices raise the risk of medication errors among seniors.
UnitedHealth and Humana say they improved refill protocols to prevent stockpiling and enhance safety.