TODAY’S BIBLE VERSE

Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever. Psalm 28:9

D.C. must fix Rx prices

I’m fed up with the lack of leadership in Washington on prescription drug prices. For years, there has been a lot of talk about solutions, but drug prices continue to climb. I have had a rare nerve pain disorder since 2005. When first diagnosed, I was taking up to 20 medications a day. Despite having very good insurance, it was all but impossible for me to afford my prescriptions. I had to pick and choose what I was going to treat.

Sadly, I’m not alone. A recent poll by the West Health Institute found that more than a third of Tennesseans have skipped taking needed medication or filling a prescription because of price. That’s unacceptable. I now have coverage through the VA, which I feel so fortunate to have, but still pay thousands of dollars out of pocket for my prescription drugs annually because prices have continued to skyrocket.

LETTERS

Email letters to letters@commercial appeal.com; mail Letters to the Editor, The Commercial Appeal, 495 Union, Memphis, TN 38103; or click on the “Submit Letter” link on the Opinion page atcommercialappeal.com.

It’s no wonder 70 percent of voters want congressional candidates to do something about this problem. We know there are many commonsense solutions, like allowing Medicare to negotiate directly with drug companies to bring down prices. In fact, three-quarters of voters said they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who committed to doing just that.

Candidates, are you listening? Filling a prescription should not be a luxury. Please lead on this issue and commit to bringing down drug prices. We will reward you at the ballot box.

Susan Hawkins, Memphis