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A Desperate Need for Affordable Prescription Medication in the U.S.A.
Americans pay the highest prices for prescription drugs of all nations in the world. Millions of Americans either have inadequate prescription health benefits, or worse - no health insurance. For more than two decades, American consumers have been crossing the borders to Canada and Mexico in search of low cost prescription drugs. Through sponsored bus tours and planned group trips, American consumers have been able to obtain discounted prices on medications from their neighboring countries.
The Canadian Response
With an aging population and an ever-increasing cost for prescription medications, individuals, corporations, and politicians are looking to Canadian pharmacies for lower cost prescription medications. The increased growth and popularity of internet usage combined with the promotion of safe and affordable medications over the internet, has made it easier than ever for individuals to order prescriptions from Canada without having to leave their homes.
Our Industry
As a result, mail order prescription fulfillment from Canada is one of the fastest growing industries in North America. It is estimated that over 1 million Americans ordered their prescriptions from licensed Canadian pharmacies in 2003. That number is expected to rise dramatically as more and more Americans are left with insufficient health coverage.
The US Government and FDA have recognized the problem of access to affordable drugs and have maintained a policy of allowing individuals to import prescription drugs for personal use.
This "Personal Use" policy was intended to help Americans who faced quality of life issues due to life threatening diseases and inability to afford prescription drugs under the U.S. system. The policy currently allows Americans to import a 90-day personal supply of prescription medication. The policy is not law but recognizes the right of every American to have access to affordable and safe prescription medication.
A Common Goal for Our Group of Canadian Pharmacy Affiliates
Our pharmacy affiliates network also believes in that policy. We are in the fortunate position of providing an interim solution as we work with governments, consumer associations and industry groups to find a permanent solution.
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