We must find ways to make prescription drugs more affordable. One of the most pressing concerns I hear from fellow Kansans is the high price of medications. This is especially true for our seniors, many of whom rely on multiple medications to remain healthy and active. This is why Congress passed and the president signed into law the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA, P.L. 108-173). I voted for this legislation because I strongly support efforts to strengthen and improve the Medicare program for seniors today and future generations. Under the MMA, seniors were able to get prescription drug coverage for the first time through the Medicare program. Seniors can now choose the type of health plan that best fits their needs.
I certainly understand the need to provide Kansans with affordable medication, which is why I support efforts to provide better access to prescription drug coverage. I have also long supported increased funding for the National Institutes of Health and the FDA to improve disease research and speed the development of better technologies, medical cures and breakthroughs. In addition, many pharmaceutical companies offer assistance to seniors and other individuals who may have difficulty with their drug costs. If you are interested in additional information, I encourage you to contact the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) at 1-888-477-2669 or www.pparx.org to determine if you qualify for this additional assistance.
I will continue to work with my colleagues to find ways to lower the cost of prescription drugs.
