WASHINGTON (AP) - A Democratic congressman is suggesting that public outrage over the increase in price for the EpiPen could help Congress pass legislation allowing Medicare to directly negotiate drug prices with companies.
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Congressman Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts linked the EpiPen controversy to Medicare and drug prices during a hearing Wednesday before a House committee. He says the high price charged by pharmaceutical company Mylan shows a blatant disregard for people who need the EpiPen.
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Medicare is the federal government's largest drug purchaser. Allowing it to negotiate directly with companies is a move long favored by the Obama administration, but one universally opposed by drug makers.
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Lawmakers of both parties are pressing Mylan CEO Heather Bresch about company profits from the EpiPen. Bresch says the company does not take home the $600 list price of the emergency injection.
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