States Take ‘Aggressive Lead’ on Prescription Drug Programs for Elderly, Low-Income
With 43 states considering legislation to "ease the burden" of prescription drug costs for the needy and elderly, the pharmaceutical industry is opposing the measures in favor of a "national solution," the AP/Nando Times reports. Advocates for senior citizens also say the state plans are "more political than practical" and may not go "far enough" to help the elderly with prescription drug costs. Jeff Trewhitt, a spokesperson for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, said, "The last thing we need is a growing patchwork quilt of different and perhaps even conflicting state laws. It really is a national problem that requires a national solution." The AP/Times reports, however, that states are not "slowing ... down." States considering prescription drug legislation include:
- Ohio: Gov. Bob Taft (R) is supporting a bill that would "encourage" pharmacies to join a program that would negotiate discounts for seniors. More than 600,000 seniors would be eligible to participate in the program.
- Virginia: Under a proposal, the state Health Department would advertise free drug programs and establish hot lines that would connect people directly to drug firms.
- Minnesota: The state Senate health committee has passed a bill that would permit one million state residents without drug coverage to save 15% on pharmaceutical purchases.
- North Carolina: Republicans in the state House are supporting a bill that would help seniors who do not qualify for Medicaid benefits with drug costs.
