Maryland Approves Prescription Drug Price Caps

Maryland lawmakers have approved a significant plan by the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) to establish upper payment limits on high-cost prescription drugs purchased by state and local agencies. The Legislative Policy Committee voted 16-5 in favor of the plan, which is intended to alleviate rising medication costs without disrupting the market. House Speaker Adrienne Jones described this decision as a crucial step in a five-year effort to enhance drug affordability. The PDAB will initially review six medications, including Ozempic and Dupixent, which have been identified as prohibitively expensive for both insurers and patients. Despite concerns from some Republicans about potential negative effects on patient costs, supporters believe this initiative could significantly reduce public spending on drugs. The plan aligns with broader trends in healthcare aimed at negotiating lower prices for medications.