Michigan Coalition Visits Washington to Urge Michigan Congressional Delegation to Support Efforts That Would Ensure Michigan Consumers Timely Access to Generic Drugs

10/13/2003

From: Helen Stojic of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, 313-225-8113

DETROIT, Oct. 13 -- Legislation in Congress that would eliminate unnecessary delays in bringing generic drugs earlier to market would result in tremendous dollar savings to Michigan businesses. That's the message being carried by the Michigan for Affordable Pharmaceuticals (MAP) Coalition, which represents businesses, labor groups, health providers and health plans in the state, when coalition members visit members of Michigan's Congressional delegation in Washington on Thursday, Oct. 16 to urge passage of the legislation.

Coalition members said the proposed legislation is a welcome step that will aid Michigan residents' access to affordable prescription drugs.

Recently finalized FDA rules intended to improve access to such generics are already expected to save Michigan residents and businesses an estimated $1.4 billion over 10 years. The legislation would increase that number in Michigan by an estimated $280 million over 10 years based on current market conditions, according to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan data.

Research shows that brand-name drugs totaling nearly $33 billion in sales (based on 2002 sales) are expected to lose patent protection by 2006 and could be introduced as generics.

The coalition will also present arguments to support its desire to see changes in direct-to-consumer drug advertising so that more balanced information is included in advertisements about drugs and their effects. The FDA recently held a public meeting in Washington, D.C. where several researchers presented their findings on the impact of DTC advertising. One study found nearly 60 percent of consumers who participated agreed strongly or somewhat strongly that ads for prescription drugs do not give enough information about possible risks and negative side effects.

Coalition members are Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network of Michigan, Detroit Regional Chamber, General Motors Corporation, Medco Health Solutions, Michigan Association of Health Plans, Michigan Department of Community Health, Michigan Health & Hospital Association, Michigan Osteopathic Association, Michigan Pharmacists Association, Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System, Michigan State Medical Society and United Auto Workers.

EDITORS' NOTE: MAP members will outline their position to a group of Congressional staff members at a 7:30 a.m. breakfast in the Rayburn Building. The media are welcome to attend. Coalition members are also available to speak on the generics legislation as well as direct-to-consumer drug advertising. To schedule an interview or receive a schedule of Congressional visits, please call 313-225-8113.