WASHINGTON (AP) - A Democratic congressman is suggesting that public outrage over the increase in price for the EpiPen could help Congress pass legislation allowing Medicare to directly negotiate drug prices with companies.
Congressman Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts linked the EpiPen controversy to Medicare and drug prices during a hearing Wednesday before a House committee. He says the high price charged by pharmaceutical company Mylan shows a blatant disregard for people who need the EpiPen.
Medicare is the federal government's largest drug purchaser. Allowing it to negotiate directly with companies is a move long favored by the Obama administration, but one universally opposed by drugmakers.
Lawmakers of both parties are pressing Mylan CEO Heather Bresch about company profits from the EpiPen. Bresch says the company does not take home the $600 list price of the emergency injection.
