Bottle Of Medicine (Unsplash) Nearly a year after receiving federal approval to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada, Florida's ambiti
Nearly a year after receiving federal approval to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada, Florida’s ambitious program has yet to deliver a single pill.
The initiative, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis as a way to combat high drug prices, has faced numerous hurdles and delays, raising questions about its feasibility and potential cost savings.
“After years of federal bureaucrats dragging their feet, Florida will now be able to import low-cost, life-saving prescription drugs,” said Governor Ron DeSantis in January. “It’s about time that the FDA put patients over politics and the interests of Floridians over Big Pharma.”
“Another win against Biden and his heavy-handed bureaucrats,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody in a January statement. “Florida has won many legal battles against the Biden administration, and I am pleased they finally decided to back down and stop standing between Florida and lower prescription drug prices. Great to work with Governor DeSantis, who showed strong leadership in this important fight.”
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Despite the FDA’s approval in January, Florida officials have been unable to provide a timeline for the program’s launch.
A Florida health official familiar with the importation program told KFF Health News there was no planned date yet for the state to begin importing drugs.
The official asked not to be identified because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly about the program, according to the outlet.
Several challenges could have contributed to the program’s stalled progress:
- Finding willing partners: Both Canadian exporters and U.S. importers have been hesitant to participate due to concerns about supply shortages and potential legal challenges.
- Meeting FDA requirements: The FDA has strict requirements for drug importation, including ensuring the authenticity and safety of the medications.
- Opposition from drug companies: Pharmaceutical companies have opposed importation, arguing it could lead to counterfeit drugs entering the U.S. market.
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While Florida initially projected significant cost savings for state agencies, the actual impact may be minimal.
Moreover, the state has already spent tens of millions of dollars on the program, including $50 million to a company contracted to set up a warehouse for imported medications.
Colorado, the only other state with a pending importation plan, has also encountered difficulties finding willing drug manufacturers, according to KFF.
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