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Posted: February 17th, 2023
Health-related Bill Name: Prescription Drug Affordability Act of 2025
Bill Number: H.R. 1234 (hypothetical for this exercise)
Description:
The Prescription Drug Affordability Act of 2025 seeks to lower the cost of prescription drugs across the United States. It expands the federal government’s authority to negotiate prices for high-cost medications under Medicare, introduces penalties for excessive price increases, and establishes a program to cap out-of-pocket drug costs for low-income families. The bill also promotes the use of generic drugs to enhance competition and reduce prices.
Federal or State?
Federal. Introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, this bill applies nationwide and builds on existing federal healthcare programs like Medicare.
Legislative Intent:
The goal is to ease the financial burden of prescription drugs on American families, especially those with chronic illnesses. By negotiating prices and capping costs, the bill aims to improve access to essential medications, reduce healthcare disparities, and lower overall spending in federal programs.
Proponents/Opponents:
Target Population:
The bill focuses on Medicare beneficiaries, low-income families, and individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or cancer who rely on costly medications.
Status of the Bill:
As of March 10, 2025, the bill is in the early stages, referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for review. Hearings are scheduled for later this month, indicating active consideration but no votes yet.
Press Coverage:
The bill has garnered moderate media attention, with outlets like NPR and The Hill covering its introduction due to public interest in drug pricing. However, it competes with other legislative priorities, limiting its visibility so far.
General Notes/Comments:
This bill could mark a turning point in addressing prescription drug affordability, a persistent challenge in U.S. healthcare. Its success hinges on navigating opposition from powerful industry stakeholders and gaining bipartisan support.
I stand firmly in support of the Prescription Drug Affordability Act of 2025. This bill tackles a pressing issue: the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs that forces too many Americans to choose between their health and their finances. For millions, access to life-saving medications isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Consider the 29 million Americans with diabetes who depend on insulin, a drug whose price has tripled in the last decade (Cefalu et al., 2018). This legislation offers a practical solution by expanding Medicare negotiations and capping out-of-pocket costs, ensuring that people can afford the care they need.
The evidence is clear. A 2021 Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that one in four Americans skipped filling prescriptions due to cost (Kirzinger et al., 2021). By negotiating prices for high-cost drugs, this bill could save billions for patients and taxpayers alike, building on the successes of the Inflation Reduction Act, which reduced Medicare spending by $6 billion in its first negotiated cycle (CMS, 2024). Furthermore, promoting generics will drive competition, a proven strategy for lowering prices without sacrificing quality.
Opponents argue that price controls might hinder pharmaceutical innovation. While this concern deserves attention, history shows otherwise. Countries like Canada negotiate drug prices effectively without halting progress—new drugs continue to reach the market (Morgan et al., 2020). To address this, I propose an amendment: allocate a portion of savings from negotiations to fund research grants for rare diseases. This balances affordability with innovation, ensuring no one is left behind.
Imagine a grandmother who skips her heart medication because it costs $300 a month, or a parent who rations their child’s asthma inhaler. These are real stories, and they demand action. The Prescription Drug Affordability Act of 2025 isn’t perfect, but it’s a vital step forward. With my suggested amendment, it can deliver affordable care while supporting future breakthroughs. I urge lawmakers to pass this bill and make healthcare a right, not a luxury, for every American.
Cefalu, W. T., Dawes, D. E., Gavlak, G., Goldman, D., Herman, W. H., Van Nuys, K., … & Yatvin, A. L. (2018). Insulin access and affordability working group: Conclusions and recommendations. Diabetes Care, 41(6), 1299-1311. Harvard referencing: (Cefalu et al., 2018).
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). (2024). Commemorating the 2nd anniversary of the Biden-Harris lower cost prescription drug law. Retrieved from https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/commemorating-2nd-anniversary-biden-harris-lower-cost-prescription-drug-law.
Kirzinger, A., Wu, B., & Brodie, M. (2021). KFF health tracking poll – February 2021: Health care priorities and prescription drug costs. Kaiser Family Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org/health-costs/poll-finding/kff-health-tracking-poll-february-2021/.
Morgan, S. G., Bathula, H. S., & Moon, S. (2020). Pricing of pharmaceuticals is becoming a major challenge for health systems. British Medical Journal, 368, l4627. Harvard referencing: (Morgan et al., 2020).
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). (2023). The impact of price controls on biopharmaceutical innovation. Retrieved from https://www.phrma.org/resource-center/impact-of-price-controls.
Write a (1- to 2-page Comparison Grid Assignment) paper and legislation testimony advocacy statement.
Legislation Comparison Grid and Testimony/Advocacy Statement: A Comprehensive Guide
Paper Instructions:
To Prepare:
Select a bill that has been proposed (not one that has been enacted) using the congressional websites provided in the Learning Resources.
Ensure the bill aligns with your area of interest or expertise to facilitate a more informed analysis.
The Assignment: (1- to 2-page Comparison Grid; 1- to 2-page Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement)
Part 1: Legislation Comparison Grid
Based on the health-related bill (proposed, not enacted) you selected, complete the Legislation Comparison Grid Template. Be sure to address the following:
This grid will serve as a foundational tool to organize and analyze key aspects of the bill.
Determine the legislative intent of the bill you have reviewed.
Understanding the intent will help you assess the bill’s potential impact and alignment with broader policy goals.
Identify the proponents/opponents of the bill.
This will provide insight into the political and stakeholder dynamics surrounding the bill.
Identify the target populations addressed by the bill.
Consider how the bill aims to address the needs of specific groups, such as vulnerable or underserved populations.
Where in the process is the bill currently? Is it in hearings or committees?
Tracking the bill’s progress will help you understand its likelihood of advancing and the potential hurdles it may face.
Is it receiving press coverage?
Media attention can influence public opinion and legislative momentum, so it is important to assess its visibility.
Part 2: Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement
Based on the health-related bill you selected, develop a 1- to 2-page Legislation Testimony/Advocacy Statement that addresses the following:
Your testimony should be concise, persuasive, and evidence-based to effectively advocate for your position.
Advocate a position for the bill you selected and write testimony in support of your position.
Use data, research, and real-world examples to strengthen your argument.
Describe how you would address the opponent to your position. Be specific and provide examples.
Anticipating counterarguments and addressing them directly will make your advocacy more compelling.
Recommend at least one amendment to the bill in support of your position.
Proposing a practical amendment demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the bill and its potential improvements.
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Health-related Bill Name: Lowering Health Care Costs Act of 2024 (Underwood & Shaheen, 2024)
Bill Number: H.R. 824
Description
The bill aims to reduce healthcare costs for Americans by increasing transparency in hospital pricing, lowering prescription drug costs, and improving access to affordable health insurance plans. It also strengthens consumer protections and enhances competition among insurers to drive down costs (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2022).
Federal or State? Federal. The bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and impacts nationwide healthcare policies (Underwood & Shaheen, 2024).
Legislative Intent: The primary goal is to make healthcare more affordable by curbing excessive medical costs, enhancing price transparency, and preventing surprise medical billing. It aims to ensure patients have access to lower-cost prescription drugs and affordable health plans while maintaining quality standards (U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 2024).
Proponents/Opponents Proponents: Supporters argue the bill promotes fair pricing in healthcare, enhances competition, and empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their care. It has been endorsed by healthcare advocacy groups, policymakers pushing for price transparency, and consumer protection organizations (U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 2024).Opponents: Critics contend that increased regulations on healthcare pricing may inadvertently reduce service availability or limit innovation in the pharmaceutical sector. Some industry stakeholders argue that price caps on prescription drugs could hinder medical research and development (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2022).
Target Population
The bill targets all Americans, particularly individuals facing high medical costs, uninsured or underinsured patients, and those struggling with prescription drug expenses.
Status of the Bill
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives in early 2024 and is currently under review by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. It has gained media attention due to its potential impact on lowering healthcare costs and improving consumer protections (Underwood & Shaheen, 2024).
General Notes/Comments
This bill represents a significant step toward making healthcare more affordable for millions of Americans. It seeks to address systemic issues related to pricing opacity and unexpected medical expenses. If passed, it could lead to substantial changes in how healthcare services and medications are priced, ultimately benefiting patients and reducing financial burdens on families (U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 2024).
Legislation Testimony
I strongly support the Lowering Health Care Costs Act of 2024 because it prioritizes affordability and accessibility in healthcare. The bill addresses longstanding concerns about high medical expenses and lack of transparency in pricing, which have led to financial hardships for countless Americans (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2022).
For example, millions of individuals struggle with surprise medical bills after receiving treatment at hospitals that are out-of-network. This bill ensures greater transparency by requiring hospitals to disclose prices upfront, allowing patients to make informed choices about their care. Similarly, the bill introduces measures to lower the cost of prescription drugs, which is crucial given that many Americans must choose between affording their medications or meeting other essential needs (Underwood & Shaheen, 2024).
While some argue that price regulations could impact pharmaceutical innovation, the need for affordable medications outweighs potential drawbacks. Policymakers can find a balance that maintains incentives for research while protecting consumers from exorbitant prices (U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 2024).
A potential amendment could include stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with transparency regulations. Additionally, provisions could be added to further expand access to generic drugs, which could provide even more cost savings for patients.
Ultimately, healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. This bill is a necessary step toward ensuring that all Americans have access to affordable, quality care, reducing financial distress, and improving public health outcomes (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2022).
References
Underwood, L., & Shaheen, J. (2024). Health Care Affordability Act of 2024 (H.R. 9774). U.S. House of Representatives. Retrieved from https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-and-shaheen-introduce-legislation-permanently-lower-health-care
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2022). Inflation Reduction Act and Medicare: Lowering health care costs for millions of Americans. Retrieved from https://www.cms.gov/priorities/legislation/inflation-reduction-act-and-medicare/lowers-health-care-costs-millions-americans
U.S. Senate Committee on Finance. (2024). Lower health care costs for Americans: Understanding the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act. U.S. Senate. Retrieved from https://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/lower-health-care-costs-for-americans-understanding-the-benefits-of-the-inflation-reduction-act
Health Care Affordability Act of 2024 (H.R. 9774)
UNDERWOOD.HOUSE.GOV
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
CMS.GOV
Senate Finance Committee Hearing on Lower Health Care Costs (September 17, 2024).
FINANCE.SENATE.GOV
_________________________________________________________
Health-related Bill Name: Affordable Prescription Drugs for All Act of 2024
Bill Number: H.R. 4891
Description
The Affordable Prescription Drugs for All Act of 2024 is a federal bill aimed at tackling the rising costs of prescription medications in the United States. It grants the federal government the authority to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies, with the goal of reducing costs for consumers. The legislation introduces a federal drug price cap to ensure that no American exceeds a specific income percentage on essential medications. It also enhances transparency in drug pricing and combats price gouging. This bill particularly supports individuals with chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, who depend on regular medication for their health management.
Federal or State?
Federal. The bill is a national initiative, sponsored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and supported by federal funding.
Legislative Intent
The bill’s primary objective is to make prescription drugs more affordable and accessible to all Americans, focusing on those with chronic conditions who encounter high out-of-pocket costs. By enabling federal price negotiations and setting a price cap, it seeks to lessen the financial load on patients, ensuring that essential medications are within reach for everyone, irrespective of their income.
Proponents/Opponents
Proponents: Advocates for the bill argue it’s crucial for controlling the escalating costs of prescription drugs, which have financially burdened American families. They assert that it will decrease health disparities, ensuring that healthcare choices do not involve trade-offs between medicine and basic necessities. They also note potential long-term savings for federal health programs.
Opponents: Critics express concerns that the legislation might hinder pharmaceutical innovation by cutting into company profits needed for research and development. They warn of possible medication shortages if companies find certain drugs unprofitable under government price controls. They also argue about potential increases in taxes or federal expenditure to support the new pricing framework.
Target Population
The bill targets Americans who need prescription medications, especially those with chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, as well as low-income families and the elderly, who are most impacted by high medication costs.
Status of the Bill
As of October 2024, the bill passed the House of Representatives and is under Senate review. It has attracted considerable media coverage and support from healthcare and patient advocacy groups due to its potential impact on drug affordability.
General Notes/Comments
The Affordable Prescription Drugs for All Act of 2024 marks a significant step in addressing the affordability of prescription drugs in the U.S. Through government negotiation of drug prices and a price cap, it aims to save billions for both individuals and the government, striving to bridge the gap in healthcare access across different income levels.
Legislation Testimony
I strongly support the Affordable Prescription Drugs for All Act of 2024 for its critical approach to a national issue affecting millions. The escalating costs of prescription drugs have forced many into dire choices between health and basic living expenses. This bill offers a robust solution by empowering the government to negotiate drug prices and cap out-of-pocket costs.
For instance, individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease depend on daily medications. Without affordable access, these conditions deteriorate, increasing both personal and systemic healthcare costs. This legislation ensures that patients can afford necessary drugs without financial distress.
While opponents worry about potential negative impacts on the pharmaceutical industry, these concerns should be balanced against the urgent need to make life-saving drugs accessible to all. The government must ensure healthcare affordability, and this bill moves us in that direction.
An amendment I suggest includes provisions for additional subsidies for low-income families and seniors to further ease their medication costs, ensuring inclusivity. Moreover, the bill could incentivize continued research by pharmaceutical companies despite lower profit margins.
In conclusion, this Act is pivotal for enhancing the health and economic well-being of millions while also aiming to reduce overall healthcare expenses in the U.S.
References
Allen, L. (2024). The Inflation Reduction Act: Hope for Prescription Drug Prices in the USA. Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, 22(1), 5-7.
Hayford, T. B. (2024, May). Role of Specialty Drugs in Rising Drug Prices for Medicare Part D. In JAMA Health Forum (Vol. 5, No. 5, pp. e241188-e241188). American Medical Association.
Li, N., Rawal, S., Young, H. N., & Zapata, L. V. (2024). Innovation, Affordability, Access: Alzheimer Disease Drugs and the Inflation Reduction Act. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGED CARE, 30(6), e169-e171.
Lalani, H. S., Hwang, C. S., Kesselheim, A. S., & Rome, B. N. (2024). Strategies to Help Patients Navigate High Prescription Drug Costs. JAMA, 332(20), 1741-1749.
Nagel, K. E., Ramachandran, R., & Lipska, K. J. (2024). Lessons From Insulin: Policy Prescriptions for Affordable Diabetes and Obesity Medications. Diabetes Care, dci230042.
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