SANTA FE, NM – Barbara Webber, Executive Director of Health Action New Mexico, provided the following statement following a unanimous vote of the Interim Legislative Health and Human Services Committee today endorsing the Prescritpion Drug Affordability Act. A Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) would regulate prescription drugs with costs that greatly impact New Mexicans, including high-cost, brand name medications. The Board would consider a broad range of economic factors when setting appropriate payment rates for reviewed drugs, allowing pharmaceutical manufacturers the opportunity to justify existing drug costs. Once a fair payment rate is determined, the Board sets an upper payment limit that applies to all purchasers and payor reimbursements in New Mexico, ensuring that lower costs benefit consumers.
“I applaud the Legislative Health and Human Service Committee’s unanimous endorsement of the Prescription Drug Affordability Act. New Mexicans continue to struggle to afford the medications they need and will benefit from an independent board ensuring they have access to affordable prescription drugs. I urge Governor Lujan Grisham to add the bill to her priority list for the upcoming legislative session,” said Webber
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Barbara Webber, Executive Director, Health Action New Mexico
505-508-6531 (cell) barbara@healthactionnm.org