Ohio Issue 2: Drug Price Relief Act

I've been getting a lot of questions from my patients on Ohio Issue 2, the Drug Price Relief Act. Many believe this November 7th ballot issue will be the most expensive in Ohio history. All Ohioans have been seeing the television ads for the past few months. And, each side is accusing the other of deceptive advertising. 

What does Issue 2 say? Issue 2 would require the state of Ohio to pay the same, or lower prices for prescription drugs as the VA (meaning the US Department of Veterans Affairs).

Why is Issue 2 controversial? It's controversial because the voters in Ohio are confused about what actually will happen if Issue 2 passes. Will it actually lower drug prices? This is a key point that cannot ultimately be answered. In the research I have done, experts state that "there are too many variables" in play to predict whether drug prices will actually decrease.

My Bottom Line: I encourage you to check out the websites and videos below and make your own determination. For me, I still have many questions about Issue 2, and I'm not convinced that Issue 2 will lower the price of drugs for my patients. I am going to be voting No on Issue 2. 

Resources for you to read and to view on Ohio Issue 2:

• Vote No On Issue 2 Website: No On 2 Deceptive Rx Issue
• Vote Yes On Issue 2 Website: Ohio Taxpayers For Lower Drug Prices
• Ballotpedia: Ohio Issue 2: Drug Standards Price Initiative (2017)
• Dayton Daily News: Ohio's Drug Price Ballot Issue: What's Really Going On
• Cleveland 19 News: What Is Issue 2 in Ohio?

In November 2017, Ohioans will vote on a flawed, deceptive ballot issue. The proposed law is a bad deal for Ohio and Ohioans. If passed, it will lead to bureaucratic delays, lawsuits and higher costs for taxpayers. For more information visit: http://www.DeceptiveRxIssue.org

Ohio Issue 2 focuses on the price of prescription drugs. Dale Butland, an opponent of the measure, explains why he believes it's deceptive and won't fix the problem with high drug prices.

Uploaded by Ohio for Lower Drug Prices on 2017-05-30.

Ohio Issue 2 focuses on the price of prescription drugs. Matt Borges, a supporter of the ballot issue, explains why he believes it's a good thing for Ohioans, saying it would save the state money.

Uploaded by The University of Toledo on 2017-05-30.

Debate is heating up over an initiative headed to Ohio's fall ballot that backers say is aimed at controlling drug prices. http://nbc4i.co/2rL6F4t

Ohio Issue 2's yes, no sides debate 1 month before voters decide

NBC4 WCMH-TV is partnering with broadcast stations across Ohio to host a Statewide Issue 2 Forum aimed at getting the facts about the prescription drug initiative appearing on the upcoming November ballot.

"Ohio Drug Price Relief Act" ballot issue. A look at both sides forum moderated by Jeremy Pelzer, Cleveland.com Tuesday September 19, 2017 7-8:30pm J. B. Silvers, Ph.D.

Disclaimer: This essay is my personal and individual opinion, and does not necessarily represent the places I work or the organizations of which I am a member.