Quote:
Originally Posted by Stu from NYC
When selling drugs to consumers via medicare the drug companies set the price. Only in America would the govt allow the fox to control the henhouse.
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Medicare isn't a singular thing. It's a collection of insurance companies that have agreed to specific benefits for their older insured members with specific guidelines and assorted options and fees. It is a collaboration between government and insurance companies.
The Rx industry is no different from any other profit-making industry when it comes to pricing. They set the MSRP for their product. They can negotiate lower prices, they can run specials and deals, they can offer coupons and discounts, but their MSRP is their MSRP, take it or leave it.
Just like the MSRP for your car is what it is, it's set by the manufacturer. The dealer you buy your car from might have incentives to lower their asking price, but if they don't, then the price on the sticker is the price dictated by the manufacturer.
Same as the can of beans on the shelf. If the store has a BOGO price, it's because the store has worked out a deal with Bush Beans for that week. The store isn't just being generous, or got too much and trying to get rid of overstock.
Rx is no different. They set their MSRP, and if you have insurance, you might get a discounted price. Or you can try GoodRx or any of the other discount programs. Or - you can write to the pharmaceutical company and ask for a discount. You can usually get coupons if you ask them.
This is just how it is when you live in a country that promotes capitalism above all else. It has its benefits - to those who can afford to enjoy those benefits. For everyone else, not so much.