Summary:
In a special event hosted by Congressman Steven Horsford (D-NV), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, we put the issue of high prescription drug prices front and center. Held in Las Vegas, the event featured a special discussion with HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra titled “Putting Money Back in the Pockets of Seniors in Nevada,” specifically for Black seniors like me. The gathering drew a diverse group of seniors eager to discuss healthcare affordability, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to medications and healthcare services, particularly for seniors and communities of color.
I had the opportunity to share my story at the event. As a Las Vegas resident and U.S. Marine veteran, I've been battling prostate cancer. When I turned 65 and gained Medicare coverage, I began treatment with Xtandi, a tablet I need to take every day. A month’s supply of Xtandi is $7,000 monthly, making it impossible for me to afford on my own. Thankfully, Medicare recently started covering the full cost of Xtandi, lifting a significant financial burden off my shoulders.
My experience affording life-saving prescription medication is shared by many others. Fortunately, President Biden’s lower cost prescription drug law is making a difference. It includes measures that will lower out-of-pocket costs for millions of seniors and people with disabilities. In Nevada alone, over 117,000 Medicare Part D enrollees are projected to collectively save more than $31 million due to new 2024 policies that limit out-of-pocket costs.
Some of the benefits under President Biden’s lower cost drug law that I find particularly impactful include:
- Paying $35 per month or less for each Medicare-covered insulin product
- Receiving free recommended preventive vaccines with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, which includes vaccines for shingles and Tdap
- Holding drug companies accountable by requiring them to pay a rebate to Medicare if they raise drug prices faster than inflation
- Anticipating lower drug prices in 2026 through Medicare negotiations with participating drug companies
- Providing more assistance for affording premiums and out-of-pocket costs for qualified enrollees
This gathering on a Juneteenth afternoon not only highlighted the benefits of the new prescription drug law but also showcased the power of community engagement and advocacy. It was a touching reminder that when people come together, they can drive meaningful change and create equity in healthcare. Celebrating Juneteenth reflects the freedom and equality that historically eluded the Black community, while conversations like these remind us of the ongoing work needed for progress. The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to building upon these efforts to ensure that healthcare remains a fundamental right for every citizen.
For more information on the President’s lower cost prescription drug law, visit LowerDrugCosts.gov.
