Sen. Bernie Sanders and President Biden are working together to lower the cost of inhalers and other expenses for Americans with asthma. They called on Congress and pharmaceutical companies to do more to curb prices, with Mr. Biden trying to cap costs for insulin to $35. Earlier this year, Sanders and Democratic colleagues criticized inhaler manufacturers for charging significantly higher prices in the U.S. than elsewhere. The Federal Trade Commission is challenging drug product patents to increase competition and lower prices.
Last November, the FTC challenged drug companies on how they manipulate patents to keep low-cost generic drugs off the market, including asthma inhalers. Sanders praised the FTC for standing up to drug companies and helping deliver a major victory for the American people. Despite the pharmaceutical industry’s wealth and political power, the Biden administration and Democrats in Congress are making progress in lowering drug prices. The majority of Americans will now pay no more than $35 for inhalers at the pharmacy counter.
Americans pay more for prescription drugs than people in any other advanced country, with prices typically two to three times higher. Mr. Biden cited an example of a company charging $9 for inhalers in Germany and $286 in the U.S. More than 27 million people in the U.S. suffer from asthma, and Sanders has long advocated for a single-payer national health insurance program. Lowering healthcare costs has been a key focus for Mr. Biden, who has urged Congress to pass measures to reduce costs during his State of the Union address. The administration is working to cut what Americans pay for prescriptions to alleviate the impact of prolonged high inflation on buying power.
The Biden administration and Democrats are making progress in taking on the greed of the pharmaceutical industry and reducing the cost of prescription drugs in America. By working together, they aim to lower healthcare costs in the country. Mr. Biden and Sanders highlighted the significant steps taken to address high drug prices and ensure access to affordable medications for Americans. The collaboration between the president and Senator Sanders underscores their commitment to advancing healthcare affordability and accessibility for all Americans.
The joint efforts of President Biden and Senator Sanders have resulted in significant changes in the healthcare landscape, particularly in addressing the high cost of prescription drugs. Their advocacy for lower drug prices and increased competition in the pharmaceutical industry has led to tangible benefits for consumers, such as the cap on inhaler costs at $35 a month. By challenging drug companies and pushing for transparency in pricing, the administration is paving the way for a more affordable and equitable healthcare system for all Americans.
The partnership between President Biden and Senator Sanders reflects a shared commitment to improving healthcare affordability and accessibility for Americans. By advocating for lower drug prices and pressuring pharmaceutical companies to prioritize patients over profits, they are addressing a critical issue that impacts millions of Americans. Their collaborative efforts have already yielded positive results, with more Americans benefiting from reduced costs for essential medications like inhalers. Moving forward, the administration and Congress will continue to work towards achieving a more equitable and affordable healthcare system that meets the needs of all Americans.
