Forum Focusing On Prescription Drug Affordability Collects Information

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The first statewide community forum about prescription drug affordability, held in Howard County recently, focused on educating the public about the Prescription Drug Affordability Board, gathered input from consumers around the state and shared patient stories.

The Maryland General Assembly established the Prescription Drug Affordability Board in 2019, the first such board of its kind in the nation. The board has the authority to examine the high cost of prescription drugs and ascertain how to make these costs more affordable for Marylanders, beginning with procedures to make high-cost drugs more affordable for state and local governments.

"By 2023, the board will be required to make recommendations to the Maryland General Assembly on how to make high-cost drugs more affordable for all Marylanders. Many states across the country are working to replicate Maryland's landmark new law. In Howard County, we've advocated for years to help bring down the costs of prescription drugs and make healthcare more affordable. We welcome all to join us as we continue to discuss the impacts of high prescription drug costs on our residents and their families," Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said.

Upcoming forums will be held:

• Sept 19: Charles County Forum – 11 a.m. featuring Charles County Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II, Esq and County Health Officer Dr. Dianna Abney at the Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center, 90 Post Office Road, Waldorf
• Sept. 21: Anne Arundel County Forum – 1 p.m. featuring Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman and County Health Officer Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman at the Annapolis, Senior Activity Center, 119 South Villa Avenue, Annapolis
• Sept. 28: Frederick County Forum – 10:30 a.m. featuring Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner at the Frederick County Senior Center, 1440 Taney Avenue, Frederick
• Oct. 4: Montgomery & Prince George’s Counties Forum – 10 a.m. featuring Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich at Riderwood Senior Living, Lakeside Commons, Encore Theater, 3150 Gracefield Road, Silver Spring
• Oct. 7: Baltimore City Forum – 12 p.m. featuring Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott at the Waxter Senior Center, 1000 Cathedral Street, Baltimore City