In a poll and related report released today, AARP found prescription drug affordability continues to challenge Americans as manufacturer prices for nearly 200 of the most commonly used brand name medications for older adults rose, on average, 6.3% in the 12 months ending with June 2006.
According to AARP's latest quarterly Watchdog that monitors drug prices, the average manufacturer price increase for brand name drugs continues to outpace the annual 3.8% rate of general inflation for that same period. On average, manufacturers of 75 generic drugs widely used by people age 50+ increased prices by a relatively low 0.4%.
"Frustration over this issue will lead to action," said AARP Senior Managing Director of Government Relations David Sloane, citing a new AARP election "pulse poll." Voters ages 42 and over, the most likely to cast ballots in November, defined prescription drug affordability as a major concern. The new AARP election "pulse poll" found that this issue rises to the top of domestic issues for November."Although millions in Medicare are now saving with the help of their Medicare drug plans, those in the coverage gap are paying on their own and know how expensive their medications have become. In addition, nearly seven million Americans ages 50-64 have no health insurance, are paying full freight, and need relief," explained Sloane.
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home