Week in Review: The Latest from PhRMA

Fact Check Friday: The myth about there being no negotiation in Medicare Part D looms large. In this week’s Fact Check Friday, we debunk this myth and delve into how large, powerful purchasers negotiate directly with prescription drug manufacturers to secure discounts and rebates under Medicare Part D.

Burden on Patients – Asthma Medicines in Health Exchange Plans: In the latest “Burden on Patients” series, we feature a Q&A with Meryl Bloomrosen, senior vice president, policy, advocacy and research at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to learn about why access to medicines is crucial for patients managing their asthma condition. We also released a new fact sheet that highlights some of the potential barriers exchange patients face to accessing needed asthma treatments.

TPP Should Protect Medical Innovation: The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post recently editorialized that any deal on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) must protect the investment in research and development required to bring biologics to market, which is of particular value to America’s patients. Find out more here.

Medicare Monday: Recent research published in the Journal of Health Economics found that Medicare Part D has reduced depressive symptoms among older adults due in large part to greater access to available prescription medicines. Learn more about how Part D coverage has helped patients achieve better health outcomes.