Health reform ruling could have benefits for arthritis patients

The Supreme Court ruling affirming the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act could have positive implications for millions of patients, including those who require a prescription to buy Celebrex for arthritis pain, experts say.

Amy Melnick, the vice president of public policy at the Arthritis Foundation, said that seniors with joint problems have a lot to gain from provisions of the Affordable Care Act. The law reduces the cost of medications for Medicare recipients who are in the "donut hole" and prevents insurance companies from denying coverage due to a preexisting condition.

"We are pleased by the Supreme Court's announcement today. It is now time to move forward to continue working through the implementation process to produce a health care delivery system that meets the needs of all people with arthritis," Melnick said.

Even if the law had been struck down patients would still have affordable options for obtaining the medications they need. Canadian internet pharmacies typically offer much lower prices for medications than American drug stores. Utilizing this option in conjunction with provisions of the health reform law could help individuals lower their medication spending.