Two months ago, Maryland became the first state in the country to pass legislation banning price gouging by manufacturers of generic and off-patent drugs. This is landmark legislation. However, much more needs to be done.

On Wednesday, I endorsed the Prescription Drug Affordability Initiative at a press conference organized by Maryland Health Care for All. Drug makers talk about the importance of innovation, and while we encourage research and development, physicians, patients, and family members have a right to know why medications are priced as they are. We have a right to know why medications that used to be affordable are no longer. We have a right to know about alternatives that may cost a lot less, but are just as effective. We have a right to transparent and accurate information, and a right to affordable healthcare.

As a physician, I’ve seen what happens when my patients don’t take their medications because they can’t afford them. As the Baltimore City Health Commissioner, I’ve had to ration the opioid overdose reversal antidote, naloxone, because we are being priced out of our ability to save lives. On Tuesday, I spoke at the Greater Baltimore Committee about the Health Department’s opioid overdose prevention and treatment work (see coverage in the Baltimore Sunand Baltimore Business Journal). But states and local jurisdictions like ours cannot solve the opioid crisis alone – we need additional funding and support from the federal government, as well as help from our partners in the private sector.

I am proud to work with dedicated public servants who reach people where they are. Earlier this week, PBS NewsHour profiled our Vision for Baltimore program, which screens all elementary and middle school students, and provides eye exams and glasses to any student who needs them. In addition, in response to a recent spike in the number of sleep-related infant deaths in Baltimore City, Mayor Pugh held a press conference on the importance of exercising safe sleep practices for infants. The Child Fatality Review team and I joined Mayor Pugh to urge everyone to follow the ABCs of Safe Sleep: Alone, on the Back, in the Crib (Don’t Smoke!). As the holiday season approaches and the weather gets colder, it is also important to keep children safe by turning off all burners and keeping space heaters away from bedding. One child dying is one child too many. Help us to spread the word.

This Christmas will be my first one celebrating with my baby, Eli, who turns four months old this week. I am looking forward to celebrating with him and the rest of my family, and I hope that all of you have a healthy and joyous holiday season.

Sincerely,

Leana Wen, M.D., M.Sc.

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