Health is more about what happens outside the clinic. So why aren’t our high-tech health care systems better at addressing it? An article by Baltimore City Health Department's Sonia Sarkar, Mike Fried, and Leana Wen.

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As we enter the New Year, I am thankful to continue my service to the City of Baltimore with the support of an exceptional team and under the leadership of Mayor Catherine Pugh. Every day, I feel fortunate to have a job I love and to work with people who understand how health is integrally tied to social justice and the future of our communities.

We’ve made numerous public health advancements. Baltimore City launched one of the most aggressive overdose prevention programs in the country, including my issuing a blanket prescription for the antidote, naloxone, to every resident in our city. This determined approach has resulted in more than 1,500 lives being saved by our fellow Baltimoreans—by our neighbors, family, and friends. Our outreach teams are on the streets every day to train residents on how we can all save a life.

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Two months ago, Maryland became the first state in the country to pass legislation banning price gouging by manufacturers of generic and off-patent drugs. This is landmark legislation. However, much more needs to be done.

On Wednesday, I endorsed the Prescription Drug Affordability Initiative at a press conference organized by Maryland Health Care for All. Drug makers talk about the importance of innovation, and while we encourage research and development, physicians, patients, and family members have a right to know why medications are priced as they are. We have a right to know why medications that used to be affordable are no longer. We have a right to know about alternatives that may cost a lot less, but are just as effective. We have a right to transparent and accurate information, and a right to affordable healthcare.

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