Wednesday, November 05, 2003

Action on Drug Reimportation Moves to States: A Newsmaker Interview
An interview at Medscape with Brian Osberg, Minnesota Department of Human Services - "Joining a growing chorus of state officials distressed by skyrocketing prices of drugs their constituents need but can't afford, Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R, Minn.) announced a plan last week to help Minnesotans buy U.S.-manufactured brand-name drugs from Canadian pharmacies. ... Under the Minnesota proposal, the state's Department of Human Services would develop a Web site that would list the prices for specific brand-name drugs at selected Canadian pharmacies. The state would also negotiate drug prices with pharmacies that meet safety criteria, although individuals, not the state, would purchase the drugs directly from the pharmacy. Initially, the program would be available to residents who are uninsured, covered by Medicare, or who do not have prescription drug coverage." [Viewing Medscape resources requires registration, which is free].