Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Big Pharma’s “delinking” scheme: A dangerous money grab that will hurt seniors’ wallets and America’s future

The proposed policy called "delinking" aims to separate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from rebate negotiations, potentially leading to a significant financial gain for Big Pharma at the cost of Americans, especially seniors. This change could result in an estimated $32 billion boost for drug companies. University of Chicago economist, Casey Mulligan, estimates that this policy would increase Medicare Part D premiums by $13 billion yearly and add $10 billion to federal spending, while Big Pharma profits would grow by $10 billion.

Critics like Donald Trump Jr. , Charlie Kirk, and Larry Elder have denounced "delinking," labeling it a "massive money grab" that threatens free market principles and raises costs for seniors. The Paragon Health Institute warns that by removing rebates, PBMs would lose the motivation to negotiate lower drug prices, ultimately harming consumers and taxpayers.

This policy is viewed as part of a larger agenda within Washington to enrich pharmaceutical companies while financially burdening seniors, taxpayers, and employers. Removing the connection between PBMs and rebates threatens to disrupt the pricing mechanism that helps keep drug prices lower.

Statistics highlighted by Mulligan show that increased federal spending and health care premiums could hurt the economy further, causing a ripple effect on employers and taxpayers. Critics emphasize that this is not just a bad policy but a direct threat to vulnerable populations in America.

The Conservatives voice strong opposition, asserting this is not an isolated incident. Similar proposals arose in 2019 but were stopped under President Trump’s leadership. With the current Biden administration, advocates for “delinking” are pushing with greater urgency, leading to fears of a more government-controlled health care system.

The proposed scheme is seen as problematic because it could lead to higher drug prices while concentrating more power with pharmaceutical companies. The situation calls for immediate actions from Congress to counteract the proposal. They must take a stance that protects seniors and maintains market incentives that help manage drug prices. Critics assert that if lawmakers fail to reject this plan, the financial fallout would primarily be absorbed by ordinary Americans instead of benefiting the communities in need.

In summary, "delinking" is a contentious proposal that may enrich drug companies while severely impacting American seniors and taxpayers, and it is crucial for Congress to take action against it. 

https://www.naturalnews.com/2024-12-17-big-pharmas-delinking-scheme-money-grab-hurting-seniors.html

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