Bernie Sanders to subpoena Novo Nordisk US chief
Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders intends to subpoena Doug Langa, the US chief of Novo Nordisk, to testify before the Senate’s health committee on July 10th. He’ll be required to explain why the company’s drugs are substantially more expensive in the US compared to other countries. Sanders has criticized pharmaceutical companies like Novo for what he sees as manipulating prices and profiting at the expense of the American people. Novo Nordisk, however, is surprised by Sanders’ claims of non-cooperation, emphasizing their willingness to discuss the issue. They highlight previous instances where Lars Fruergaard, Novo’s CEO, has participated in hearings and explain that discounts are often provided in the US, which are not reflected in the list prices. Novo points out the complexity of the US healthcare system, with middlemen such as purchasing companies and insurance firms contributing to higher patient costs. The vote to decide whether Doug Langa will be summoned takes place on June 18.