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WASHINGTON, Jun 20, 2003 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- The Senate voted 62-28 Friday to allow American pharmacists to buy prescription drugs in Canada and resell them in the United States.
Drugs in Canada are often less expensive than in the United States, so many people think the move will result in lower drug prices, the New York Times reported.
The plan is attached to the Medicare legislation being considered by both houses of Congress.
Although the House is expected to pass the measure, it could take a while before it goes into effect, the Times reported. Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson has to verify that the importations can be done safely and will be cost-effective. The Times reported that Thompson has declined to give his approval.
Copyright 2003 by United Press International.
