As the chairman of the House Human Relations and Aging Committee in Georgia, I have observed the significant impact of high prescription drug prices on patients. Many individuals are forced to skip doses or delay filling prescriptions due to cost concerns, which can lead to serious health risks. This issue is prevalent not only in my district but across Georgia and the entire nation.
Research indicates that Americans pay more for prescription drugs than those in other developed countries. A 2022 study by RAND Corporation revealed that U.S. drug prices were, on average, 2.78 times higher than in 33 other high-income nations. The disparity is even greater for brand-name medications.
Efforts have been made to address this imbalance under the Trump administration through several executive orders aimed at reducing drug costs, especially for seniors and low-income families. These measures include tying Medicare drug prices to those paid in other wealthy countries, known as “most favored nation” pricing.
The administration also sought to increase competition by expediting approvals for generic drugs and biosimilars—more affordable alternatives to brand-name drugs—and allowing states and pharmacies to import lower-cost medications from abroad.
Currently, over 70 percent of generic drugs used in the U.S. are produced overseas, leading to shortages and security risks. There is a need to regain control over the medical supply chain within America, ensuring a stable supply of essential medications while creating jobs domestically.
These initiatives highlight flaws in the existing system that allow pharmaceutical companies to prioritize profits over patient care, resulting in price hikes and shortages that affect citizens nationwide.
“This is not a Republican issue or a Democrat issue,” I emphasize. “It’s not conservative or liberal. It’s an American issue.” The priority should be on protecting citizens’ health and well-being.
I call upon Congress members from all parties to collaborate with the current administration in holding pharmaceutical companies accountable.
