Dear Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy:
As the coronavirus pandemic continues, it is critical that we do everything in our power to maintain and increase access to prescription drugs. We have consistently heard from our constituents that costs are prohibitive to obtaining their medications, a problem that is exacerbated during a crisis. Additionally, the need to social distance can make obtaining even affordable drugs difficult. We respectfully request that provisions making prescription drugs accessible and affordable are included in the next relief package.
The current system of refilling prescription drugs is often incompatible with the precautions to limit the spread of the virus. For example, in preparation for emergencies, the CDC recommends having a 30-day supply of necessary prescription drugs. However, prescriptions usually can only be refilled on a certain schedule. Furthermore, we have been promoting social distancing and limiting time spent outside the home, but consumers are often unaware of their options for obtaining fills larger than 30 days. As we craft legislation, we should consider provisions that guarantee that patients covered by both private and public insurance are able to receive early fills of their medications and are notified of options for 90-day fills during emergency periods. Additionally, we must curb any additional barriers such as utilization management tools, limited access to mail order pharmacies, or limitations on telehealth. As we continue to promote methods to flatten the curve, we must adapt to ensure that our constituents are able to have access to the prescription drugs that keep them healthy.
We must also acknowledge that an economic downturn may make prescription drugs more unaffordable than they already are for the average American. We consistently hear that the costs cause people to ration their medications, which can cause serious health problems and even death. In the middle of a public health crisis, we should take every step to lower the burden on our health care system, including lowering the cost of prescription drugs. Many policies, such as an out of pocket cap on Medicare Part D and prohibiting pay for delay tactics, share bipartisan, bicameral support. As we look for solutions for the long-term effects of this pandemic, we should consider lowering the cost of prescription drugs and bringing relief to American families.
During the past few weeks, we've shown the American people that we can come together to pass the support and reforms that they need. Although this problem is not a new one, the current pandemic has greatly increased the impacts of this issue, and as we continue to work to alleviate the burden that our families are facing we should finally address it. We appreciate your leadership on this issue and your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Chris Pappas
Lucy McBath
Tom Malinowski
Mike Levin
Jahana Hayes
Jason Crow
Angie Craig
Harley Rouda
Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr.
Katie Porter
Kendra S. Horn