AARP Supports House Majority's Prescription Drug Bill

AARP has called on Congress to approve a prescription drug bill supported by the U.S. House majority to cap out-of-pocket Medicare medication costs and require the program to negotiate for lower prices on some high-cost drugs. "HR 3 would crack down on drug companies that price gouge older Americans with relentless price increases, forcing them to choose between taking their medicine and paying their bills," stated AARP's Nancy LeaMond in a recent letter submitted to the chairs of three House panels. The measure would initially cap at $2,000 the amount of money Medicare Part D prescription drug beneficiaries must pay out of pocket for their medications each year. It also would require Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for reduced prices on high-cost medicines that do not currently face competition, allowing people with private insurance to leverage those lower prices. AARP's letter also urges Congress to "improve the Medicare program by adding coverage for dental, hearing, and vision." House Republicans have proposed a prescription drug measure to set an initial $3,100 out-of-pocket limit and not require Medicare to negotiate certain prices with drugmakers.