01.17.23 County Executive takes drug makers to court for residents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2023

Jackson County Executive takes drug makers to court on behalf of residents

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is announcing that Jackson County has filed a lawsuit related to the pricing of insulin. The county’s lawsuit alleges that insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers engage in unlawful rebate schemes that unnecessarily drive up the price of insulin for consumers and healthcare payors.

For example, insulin has increased in price exponentially over the last 20 years, even though there have been no major advancements or changes in the drug or how it is manufactured. This is a problem unique to the United States. The average price per unit of insulin in America, across all types of insulin, is more than 10 times higher than the average in other countries.

“Diabetes is a major health concern in Jackson County, which is why in our expanded Our Healthy KC Eastside programming we will be prioritizing diabetes prevention and free supportive resources throughout the community,” Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The cost of insulin, a life-saving drug that millions rely on, has skyrocketed because of the greed between insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers. Our legal action is intended to tackle this problem and expose the scheme that has harmed thousands of Missourians.”

In Missouri, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death and Jackson County is in the highest quartile of Missouri counties with adults diagnosed with diabetes.

Jackson County is suing the insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers for violations of Missouri law. The suit, a copy of which is attached, seeks damages and injunctive relief to address and stop the harm caused by the rebate scheme.

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Media: Interview requests with County Executive White can be made by contacting Public Information Officer Marshanna Smith, msmith@jacksongov.org.