On Sept. 25, the Delaware State News published a Commentary written by Delaware State Treasurer Colleen Davis on the importance of lowering prescription drug prices (“Take action now to lower the cost of prescription drugs”). As AARP Delaware’s state president, I know how important this issue is for Delawareans ages 50 and older.
The average cost of prescription drugs went up more than 26% between 2015 and 2019. But the annual income for Delawareans only increased by about 16%. How are we supposed to keep paying for the lifesaving medicines we need when drug prices keep rising beyond the cost of living?
Every year, Medicare spends more than $129 billion on prescription drugs. Yet, it’s prohibited by law from using its buying power to negotiate with drug companies for lower prices. Giving it the power to negotiate would save billions for taxpayers and people on Medicare. I echo Treasurer Davis’ sentiments that we need to act now to lower prescription drug prices.
George Meldrum
AARP Delaware state president
Wilmington
