I’m writing to express my concern regarding the recent Biden Administration announcement on Medicare pricing for 10 prescription drugs. This decision could have a significant negative impact on prescription drug access and hinder the development of new medications, particularly concerning for individuals like myself with family members, including my aunt, relying on insulin for diabetes management.

Price-setting policies for prescription drugs not only limit access to current medications but also restrict resources for research and innovation. Entrusting the government with prescription price determination may not be the most effective way to reduce costs while promoting medical advancements.

Congress should prioritize bipartisan reforms, like the DRUG Act, to address the practices of insurers and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) that prioritize profits over patient access. PBMs exert substantial influence through practices like prior authorization and patient steering, which control when and where patients can obtain necessary medications.

It is crucial for lawmakers to shift their focus away from price-setting policies and toward PBM reform, such as the DRUG Act. This bipartisan solution ensures affordable, accessible prescription treatments while maintaining pharmaceutical innovation.

Jacklyn Parhar
San Diego
Sept. 27, 2023

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