Shackleford applauds insulin price drop

State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) commends Eli Lilly & Company for cutting the cost of some of the most commonly prescribed insulins by 70%. The move comes less than a month after President Joe Biden called on Congress to expand the lowered costs of insulin for Medicare recipients through his Inflation Reduction Act to all diabetes patients in need of insulin. Shackleford has been a long-time advocate for lowering health care costs – including the cost of insulin – and released the following statement today regarding the announcement:

“This is a huge leap forward for Hoosiers struggling to pay for their insulin and other medications. Too often, people find themselves choosing between buying groceries or paying for their medications, or rationing insulin to save money. This should not be our reality. In the past, I've authored legislation to cap the price of insulin to ensure Hoosiers are never in a position where they have to decide between their health and other financial obligations. Roughly 30% of Hoosiers with diabetes are reliant on insulin to stay alive, and this price cut will help many of them stay healthy without breaking the bank. While I'm very thankful for this first step, it's just that: a first step. There is much more work to be done to lower the cost of health care for Hoosiers, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to enhance public health and increase access to affordable care in the state of Indiana.”