Texas is one of 33 states that have passed a record number of laws to try to reign in the spiraling costs of prescription medications. In this year’s 2019 legislative session, State Representative and anesthesiologist Dr. Tom Oliverson (R-Dist. 130) of Cypress shepherded HB 2536 through to try and bring more transparency to pricing. Dr. David Fleeger, President of the Texas Medical Association, says it will address the matter with manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers. “Sort of let us know when there are major changes in prices, how much drugs are going up, and let us know a little more about what’s going on in their process.” As a practicing physician, Dr. Fleeger tells KTRH News he experiences patients’ struggles. “It’s a major problem for our patients and our doctors. This week I saw a patient who was prescribed two medications and couldn’t get one of the filled because it was a thousand dollars a month. Comes and sees me for a follow up and is no better because of it.” He suggests patients let their doctor know if they are unable to afford their medication to see if there are other options available.
US Senator John Cornyn says there's bipartisan support at a federal level to reel in skyrocketing costs.