Washington, D.C. (October 3, 2008) — Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) Senior Vice President Ken Johnson issued the following statement today regarding a recent study in Pediatrics about free samples:

“Free samples have helped improve the quality of life for millions of Americans, regardless of their income. While it is true that poor and uninsured patients are not the only recipients of drug samples – which the authors of the study pointed out – a patient’s financial situation is a factor physicians often consider when distributing such samples. In fact, nearly 90 percent of the time a patient’s financial situation is weighed by healthcare providers, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey.

“Free pharmaceutical samples can also give physicians valuable first-hand experience with new treatment options and can also play a valuable role in fostering the appropriate use of medicines. Most importantly, there is no obligation for healthcare providers to continue using the therapies if they do not effectively treat their patients.

“Every day, physicians make important prescribing decisions for their patients, including weighing the benefits and risks of medicines when determining what medicine is best for their patient. The risk-benefit factor should always be considered by physicians when prescribing medicines for adults and children suffering from disease.

“While free samples clearly play a valuable role in helping millions of financially-struggling patients get access to the medicines they need to live healthier lives, patients should know there are other options. The State Children’s Healthcare Insurance Program provides health coverage for millions of low-income families so that children can receive regular health exams and preventative care. In addition, the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) has helped more than 5.2 million uninsured and financially-struggling Americans with many of them receiving medicines for free or nearly free.

“The PPA is a clearinghouse – a single point of access – to more than 475 public and private patient assistance programs, including nearly 200 sponsored by pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies. These programs provide access to more than 2,500 brand-name and generic prescription medicines. Those who need help should call the PPA’s toll-free number (1-888-4PPA-NOW) or should visit the easy-to-use website (www.pparx.org).”