WASHINGTON, DC - Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX) issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will establish a working group to review importing prescription drugs from other countries during the case of a price hike.
“We are encouraged that Secretary Azar and his team continue to deliver on the Trump Administration’s commitment to leave no stone unturned in an effort to curb increasing drug prices. There is no one more capable than FDA Commissioner Gottlieb to lead this effort to methodically review to what degree the importation of certain drugs may help reduce costs for patients and taxpayers.
“Certainly, drug importation is a complex issue, and there are very important safety concerns which must be adequately addressed. That’s why a careful and methodical review from Dr. Gottlieb and his working group will be so important. As this working group moves ahead with its work, we are hopeful their efforts can deter and combat future Martin Shrkeli’s that would seek to take advantage of our system and patients."
