International Prescription Drug Cost Containment Strategies and Suggestions for Reform in the United States

Abstract

Rising prescription drug prices have been a point of contention in the United States for decades. Questions such as who should shoulder the cost and what role the government should play in setting drug prices are central to the debate. Other nations face similar concerns and have developed prescription drug plans that incorporate various cost containment strategies. An analysis of prescription drug coverage in other nations may help educate domestic lawmakers on the complexities of these cost containment strategies. The United States could benefit from the lessons learned abroad.