Costs in Critical Condition: How a bill on Gov. Scott’s desk could lower drug prices for Vt. insurers

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - In Vermont, drugs that are infused or injected in a hospital, like chemotherapy, cost five times their average sales price.

That’s the highest in the nation, according to public policy research firm Rand.

For sick folks who need long-term treatment, it could leave their finances flatlining.

“I don’t want to leave my wife a pauper. If we spend what little we have on the treatment, and it doesn’t work, she’s alone, and a pauper,” said representative David Yacovone, D-Lamoille/Washington.

Two years ago, Rep. Yacavone was diagnosed with what he was told was incurable stage four cancer. Insurance didn’t cover his $30,000 a month treatment. He was scared.

“Any one of us, when you hear that type of thing, you’re dealing with an ocean of anxiety,” said Yacovone.

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