Americans Support Government Action on High Drug Prices

Americans are facing significant challenges in affording necessary medications, leading to severe consequences, including loss of life. There is a strong belief that Medicare negotiation can lower drug prices, with substantial distrust in the pharmaceutical industry’s counterclaims. The public supports various tax penalties on drug companies to ensure more affordable prescription drug prices.

Key Findings

1. Financial Struggles with Medication
   • 1 in 4 Americans couldn’t pay for prescribed medication in the last year.
   • 38 million Americans have lost a family member or friend in the last 5 years due to unaffordable necessary medication.
2. Medicare Negotiation and Drug Prices
   • 75% of Americans believe that Medicare negotiation will lower drug prices and improve access.
   • 2/3 of Americans distrust the pharmaceutical industry’s claim that Medicare negotiation will reduce drug access.
   • Only 6% of Americans trust drug companies to ensure affordability, whereas 48% believe Medicare can make drugs affordable.