Addressing Rising Prescription Drug Costs

The rising cost of prescription drugs is a pressing issue that impacts millions of Americans, particularly our seniors and vulnerable populations. To address this, I support the critical measures introduced in the Inflation Reduction Act, which include capping the cost of insulin for seniors at $35 a month, cracking down on hidden junk fees, and providing free vaccines for illnesses such as shingles and RSV. Additionally, giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices, capping the cost of inhalers at $35, and ensuring drug companies pay back consumers if they raise prices more than inflation are essential steps towards making medications more affordable and accessible. These measures are designed to protect patients from financial hardship and ensure that life-saving medications are within reach for everyone.

Furthermore, the Inflation Reduction Act also tackles the manipulation of the prescription drug patent system, which keeps prices artificially high, and introduces a cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 starting next year. These provisions are long overdue and provide much-needed relief to patients who struggle with the burden of high medication costs. By supporting these initiatives, I am committed to promoting fairness in healthcare, holding drug companies accountable, and ensuring that every American has access to the medications they need without facing financial ruin.