NAACP Applauds the Biden-Harris Administration's Announcement of Lower Medicare Negotiated Drug Prices

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 15, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - Today, the Biden-Harris Administration issued an announcement of the first-ever negotiated drug prices under Medicare. The NAACP applauds this pivotal move which marks the beginning of a new era in healthcare affordability, offering much-needed relief to millions of patients, particularly those in marginalized and underserved communities. Access to affordable medications is a fundamental right, and this initiative will help dismantle the financial barriers many face in accessing essential treatments.

Dr. Chris T. Pernell, NAACP Director of the Center for Health Equity, shared the following statement:

"The NAACP celebrates this bold and groundbreaking move by the Biden-Harris Administration to prioritize health equity for the American people. For decades, the Black community has borne the brunt of inequities caused by big pharma, struggling with rising medication costs. Today's announcement ushers in a new era for healthcare and highlights the importance of prioritizing people over profit. We look forward to continuing to build a future where healthcare is accessible and equitable for everyone."

By empowering Medicare to negotiate drug prices, we are taking a significant step towards equity in healthcare. This action promises to lower patient costs and improve health outcomes for communities of color that have been disproportionately affected by high disease burden and prescription drug prices. The NAACP urges the administration to continue advocating for policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act that prioritize the health and well-being of all Americans.

For more information on our health and equity work, visit our website.

###

About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.