High Rx Costs Hit New York Hispanic Community Hard.

As drug costs continue to rise, most Hispanic New Yorkers are finding it difficult to afford the drugs they need to stay healthy, according to an AARP survey.

“The findings of this survey are disturbing to say the least. The Hispanic community is clearly struggling to afford their prescription drugs,” said Alejandro Garcia, a member of AARP New York’s Executive Council. “We must all work together to pass state laws to ensure that no one has to choose between filling their grocery cart and filling their prescriptions because drugs are so expensive.”

The survey found that close to 70% of Hispanics in the New York City area have delayed, not filled, or taken less than the prescribed dosage of their drugs because they were too expensive. The survey also found that while 48% of Hispanics pay for their drugs through a state-sponsored program, nearly 20% pay the full retail price. Close to 90% of people surveyed support the creation of a discount prescription drug card in New York State for those people who have no prescription drug coverage.

“With prescription drug costs soaring, the price of staying healthy is simply growing beyond the reach of many New Yorkers” said Madeline Moore, AARP New York State President. “We are working very hard in New York State to educate people in need to get the prescription drugs they require to live healthy lives.”

AARP New York is advocating for new state laws requiring the state to bulk purchase prescription drugs and pass the savings on to those who lack drug coverage in the form of a discount card. Also, AARP is pushing for a new law to shine the light on the practices of pharmaceutical sales representatives promoting new, higher costing drugs over less expensive but equally effective drugs by giving gifts, including meals and trips, to physicians.