State leaders, consumers point to urgency as new analysis shows U.S. drug prices rise while falling abroad

For Oregonians — particularly older adults living on fixed incomes — these rising costs are more than just statistics; they are daily financial realities.

“Oregonians should not be paying more for the same medications that cost less in other countries,” said Bandana Shrestha, AARP Oregon State Director. “This report reinforces what we hear every day from people across our state — the cost of prescription drugs is simply too high, and too many are forced to make impossible choices between their health and basic needs. While progress like Medicare drug price negotiation is helping, more work is needed to ensure that all Oregonians can afford their medications.” 

The findings come as policymakers continue to explore solutions to address rising drug prices and align U.S. costs more closely with those in peer nations. 

In Oregon, the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is actively seeking input from consumers about how high drug prices affect their lives — adding urgency and local relevance to the report’s national findings. 

For many Oregonians, the impact is deeply personal.

“My wife and I are both retired and disabled, and her medications alone cost thousands each month,” said Lee Bliven, an Oregonian living with high prescription drug costs. We’re fortunate to have support right now — but even with that help, it’s a constant struggle to keep up. Too many Oregonians are one step away from having to choose between their health and their home.”

AARP notes that recent federal reforms — including allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices and capping out-of-pocket costs — are already helping reduce expenses for many older Americans. However, the report underscores that these savings do not always extend to all patients or payers, highlighting the need for continued action. 

High prescription drug prices continue to disproportionately impact people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, often forcing difficult tradeoffs between medication and essential living expenses. 

AARP Oregon encourages residents to share their experiences with the state’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board and join ongoing efforts to improve transparency and affordability in the prescription drug market.

Read the full AARP Public Policy Institute report here.