#United States #Washington #Drug Pricing #Congress #reform

Majority of Americans Demand Congressional Action on Drug Prices

A new poll conducted by Arnold Ventures reveals a significant concern among American voters regarding prescription drug pricing. With more than three-quarters of respondents expressing that it is critical for Congress to act to lower Rx drug prices, this issue has taken center stage in discussions about healthcare reform. The findings highlight a bipartisan consensus, with 70% of Trump voters among those insisting on action.

Key Insights from the Poll

According to the survey performed between March 19 and 24, the majority of voters are supportive of specific measures Congress could implement. For instance, an overwhelming 86% agree that the government, as the leading purchaser of Rx drugs in the U.S., should negotiate prices, ensuring they align with what is paid in other wealthy countries. This support transcends party lines, indicating a unified call for change.

The poll also found that 75% of voters advocate for capping any increase in drug prices to the rate of inflation—a policy change that seems increasingly urgent as more individuals face financial strains.

Public Sentiment towards Pharmaceutical Companies

Tony Fabrizio, partner at Fabrizio, Ward, and Associates, noted that public sentiment towards pharmaceutical companies is at a low point. Both drug manufacturers and health insurance companies are held responsible for high medication costs, according to 75% of polled individuals. Alarmingly, approximately 60% of respondents have recently encountered difficulty affording medications, leading to either underuse or complete cessation of their required prescriptions.

Mark E. Miller, executive vice president of health care at Arnold Ventures, stressed that rising drug prices are not a partisan issue, stating, "Voters across the political spectrum are saying enough is enough." In light of these statistics, there is an urgent need for Congress and the administration to strengthen Medicare's pricing negotiations and pursue further reforms.

Unpacking the Survey Results

The survey’s findings are compelling when broken down further:

• - 87% of voters supporting Trump, 96% of Harris supporters, and 91% of swing voters emphasize the necessity for Congress to address Rx pricing.
• - Both 75% of Trump voters and 84% of Harris supporters express strong support for limiting drug price increases to inflation rates.
• - Moreover, more than 70% believe it's vital for the government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies about pricing.
• - Notably, a significant 66% of Trump voters and 74% of Harris voters are in favor of Medicare negotiating for all drugs currently available.

Additionally, when given a choice to save money through reduced Medicare Rx drug prices or by cutting Medicaid funding, voters overwhelmingly prefer lowering drug prices by nearly 70 points.

Conclusion: Call to Action for Congress

The survey's results point toward a clear conclusion: the American public wants substantial change in the realm of prescription drug pricing. As political leaders grapple with this pressing issue, it becomes increasingly essential for Congress to enact policy measures that limit price hikes and enable federal negotiation of prices.

Arnold Ventures aims to facilitate discussions around systemic changes to improve the lives of American families, championing policies that support economic opportunity. With obesity levels rising and healthcare costs soaring, the resolution of this issue could prove pivotal for countless Americans.

In conclusion, the demand for lower drug prices is indicative of a larger need for reform in the healthcare system. With voters from all walks of life voicing their concerns, now is the time for Congress to act decisively and alleviate the burden of high medication costs on the populace.