So military veterans at Alaska Pioneer Homes can't take advantage of their prescription benefits because of a difference in packaging? This is an example of when government really is the problem instead of the solution.
About a dozen vets at the homes -- those who need help taking their medication -- are stuck taking more costly drugs because the Pioneer Homes want the medications in blister packs, and the Department of Veterans Affairs supplies them in bottles. Blister packs make it easier to keep the meds separate and make sure patients take them on schedule. Otherwise it's harder to keep track of what pill is what.
Hmmm ... You mean you can't keep the meds in the bottles they came in?
We understand the blister packs make administration easier, especially when residents are taking several medications. But it looks as if the Pioneer Homes are putting their needs ahead of the benefits vets have earned -- and making those vets or their families pay to meet the homes' preference.
Wrong priority, folks.
Now we have three state lawmakers, one state bureaucracy and one federal bureaucracy involved in trying to work this out.
Somebody take charge and make sure the vets get the cheaper drugs they're entitled to, ASAP. Whether it's blister packs or the Pioneer Homes dealing with bottles, make it happen now. This shouldn't take more than one memo and one meeting.
BOTTOM LINE: Pioneer Homes should get vets their meds at vets' prices.