Rising drug costs have become a significant burden for American families, affecting
their financial stability, health outcomes, and overall quality of life. Between 2013 and
2015, prescription medication spending grew by 20%, nearly doubling the 11% increase
in overall healthcare spending. This rapid rise has forced many families to make difficult
choices between paying for essential medications and other necessities.

Financial Strain
High-deductible health plans have led to increased out-of-pocket costs for medications.
A 2019 survey found that 24% of people taking prescription drugs reported difficulty
affording their medications. This percentage rises to 35% for those with annual incomes
below $40,000.

Health Consequences
When patients cannot afford prescriptions, it leads to poor health outcomes and
increased healthcare expenses. About 29% of adults report not taking medicines as
prescribed due to cost, with 8% saying their condition worsened as a result.

Medication Adherence
High costs significantly impact adherence. Patients may ration medications or abandon
treatment altogether. For those with chronic conditions, this can lead to serious
complications and reduced quality of life.

Societal Impact
The effects extend beyond individual families. Increased hospitalizations and
emergency care due to poor disease management strain the healthcare system.
Productivity losses from illness and absenteeism impact the broader economy.

Potential Solutions
Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach:

1. Encouraging generic and biosimilar competition
2. Allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices
3. Implementing value-based pricing
4. Increasing transparency in the drug supply chain
   In conclusion, rising drug costs have created a crisis for many American families,
   impacting their health, finances, and well-being. Addressing this issue requires
   concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare providers, and the pharmaceutical
   industry