The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) aims to reduce health care costs for older adults by eliminating cost sharing for certain drugs and vaccines covered by Medicare Part D. A study led by Dima Qato found that after the implementation of the IRA policy in January 2023, shingles vaccinations covered by Part D rose by 46%, while those with private coverage dropped by 21%. Lowering patient out-of-pocket costs increases the uptake of high-value clinical services, improving access, equity, and ultimately health. More research is needed to assess the impact of the IRA on disparities in vaccination rates and ensure that cost-sharing elimination reduces inequities.
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Inflation Reduction Act boosts shingles vaccine uptake by 46% for Medicare Part D recipients
