Washington, Apr 18, 2007 -

U.S. Congressman Phil Gingrey, M.D. (R-GA) today criticized Democrat legislation in the Senate that would allow government price controls in the Medicare prescription drug program.  Recent news reports indicate Senate Democrats do not have the support needed to force a vote on the bill.

“The Senate bill may make price controls optional, but it still allows the government to limit drug choices for our seniors” said Gingrey, a physician.  “I cannot understand why Democrats want the government to negotiate seniors’ drug prices, especially when the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has said it will not result in savings for the program.  Perhaps they see it as the first step toward a plan for socialized medicine.  But we know that Medicare Part D is hugely successful precisely because the marketplace has kept prices low and choices vast. Seniors are saving an average of $1,200 a year on their medication costs. Premiums are 40 percent lower than predicted, the vast majority of plans have no deductible, and the program is covering more drugs each year. Compare that to the Democrat plan that could restrict access to the newest and most promising drugs, and the choice is clear.  Our seniors deserve affordable choice, and Medicare Part D is delivering it.”