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JERRY SIEGEL, PHARM.D., FASHP, is Senior Director, Pharmaceutical Services, and Assistant Dean and Clinical Associate Professor, The Ohio State University Medical Center, 410 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210 (jerry.siegel{at}osumc.edu).

Purpose. The potential impact of changes in reimbursement for drugs and biologicals associated with the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act (MMA) on the management of colorectal cancer is described from the perspectives of health care providers and patients. Summary. The introduction of new chemotherapeutic agents and supportive therapies over the past several decades has increased survival in patients with colorectal cancer. The changes in reimbursement for these therapies associated with MMA may affect the financial viability of private physician office practices and hospital-based outpatient clinics where such therapies are administered. The MMA-related changes also have the potential to decrease patient access to treatment and adversely affect treatment choices, scheduling, and outcomes. Conclusion. The reimbursement changes brought about by implementation of MMA could affect health care delivery and patient care. Index terms: Antineoplastic agents; Biologicals; Colorectal neoplasms; Health-benefit programs; Laws; Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act; Reimbursement