Let Medicare Negotiate Prescription Drug Prices

New Jerseyans are struggling to afford everything from groceries to gas while prescription drug prices continue to rise. The Senate and our New Jersey representatives have the power to stop this outrage and reduce the burden of inflation by letting Medicare negotiate lower drug prices.

About five years ago, I was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. It was a shock. What’s even more shocking is how much it costs for the medications I need to stay alive. Together with my husband, it costs us anywhere from $600 to $1,000 out of pocket per month for the prescription medications we need.

I wanted to retire two years ago at age 66, but couldn’t due to the high cost of our prescription medications. So I continued to work. At this time, the pandemic hit and I was working from home in East Windsor. Eventually, I could no longer sit for long periods and finally felt too sick to continue working. If nothing changes, my only option is to stop treatment. I just can’t afford it. No one should have to make this choice.

Thank you, Senator Menendez and Senator Booker, for voicing your support for lower drug prices and standing up to Big Pharma. However, the battle isn’t over. The Senate must do what’s right and finally vote to lower prescription drug prices. If the Senate does not act, it will be at the cost of older Americans and taxpayers. We’re counting on you; now is the time to get it done.

• Pat Schreiber, East Windsor