Over the past decade, prescription drug spending in the US has more than doubled, surpassing $500 billion in 2023¹ and projected to rise by 38% through 2028². This financial strain is not merely a statistic; it’s a harsh reality for many Americans. A 2020 study by the Kaiser Family Foundation revealed that 1 in 4 Americans faces difficulties affording their prescription drugs, highlighting the pressing nature of this problem.

Several factors contribute to the relentless rise in drug prices:

1. Legislation Impact: Regulations, meant to protect consumers, can unintentionally affect drug prices.
2. High Drug Development Costs: Pharmaceutical companies set high prices to recover expenses invested in drug development.
3. The Role of Middlemen: Intermediaries between pharmaceutical companies and consumers can add significant markups to drug prices.
4. Consolidation in the Pharmaceutical Industry: Reduced competition in the pharmaceutical industry can lead to higher prices.

Facing the challenges of rising prescription drug costs, there’s a way to create a better healthcare system. By using technology, we can make information about medication costs, insurance, and assistance programs clearer and more accessible.

Making it easier to get the right medications quickly is crucial. Simpler processes empower individuals to take informed actions, reducing the stress of navigating complicated healthcare systems. By combining digital innovation with user-friendly design, we can build a future where prescription drug costs are manageable for the well-being of individuals and families.

1. healthsystemtracker.org
2. iqvia.com