Lee Legislator Talking Points 09242023

Running head: LEGISLATOR TAKING POINTS 1 1) Quick Review of the Issue and Identification of Policy Influencer: Issue: Limited accessibility of affordable prescription drugs in Indiana.  Many residents, especially those facing economic challenges, struggle to afford necessary medications.  Consequences include medication non-adherence, worsened health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs. Legislator: State Representative Chris Campbell (D-26). Scheduled Meeting Date: Facing difficulties in making an appointment as the Bill is dead. I Will focus on the underling issue associate with the bill when contact the representative. Scheduled Meeting Location: West Lafayette Public Library (Proposed) 2) Easy-to-Follow Format: Legislation House Bill 1017:  Purpose: Introduction of the Prescription Drug Donation Repository Program.  Key Provisions: Allow individuals to contribute prescription drugs to designated repositories for eligible recipients. Background of the Issue:  Highlight the pressing need for affordable prescription drugs in Indiana.  Mention the struggle of economically challenged residents to access necessary medications.  Statistics related to health insurance coverage in 2023: 7.5% of Indiana’s population not covered by private or public health insurance (America’s Health Rankings Analysis, 2023). The average American spends over $1,300 annually on prescription drugs (Definitive Healthcare, 2023). Projected Outcomes: Discuss the potential positive impact of HB 1017  Direct benefits to vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals and families.  Improved access to life-saving medications, enhancing health and quality of life.  Potential reduction in ER visits and hospitalizations, relieving strain on healthcare resources.  Positive effects on local communities and economies, as increased productivity as individuals manage chronic conditions effectively and continued employment and active community contributions. Relevance to Representative Chris Campbell  Representative Chris Campbell’s role as a member of the Government and Regulatory Affairs Committee and the Insurance Committee; More, her professional experience includes working as an audiologist  Emphasize the alignment of HB 1017 with healthcare access and affordability, key concerns in her role. Reference to a Story:  Therese Humphrey Ball, a registered nurse from Ogden Dunes, Indiana, faced a daunting challenge when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2003. Her prescribed medication, Copaxone, initially cost a staggering $1,800 per month, draining her savings. Grants helped her afford it from 2012 to 2016, but in 2017, the price soared to $6,000 monthly, forcing her to go without it for three months. She also had to stop taking pancreas enzymes for six months due to high costs