Hilary Hodge has struggled with severe allergic asthma for most of her life, becoming part of the small percentage of patients whose symptoms have only worsened over time. In the United States, her asthma medication was prohibitively expensive, costing around $36,000 annually, making it nearly impossible for her to afford it despite being eligible for the treatment. In 2017, she moved to France with her husband and encountered a dramatically different healthcare system that offered her the same medication for just $3,000 a year.

Hodge's move sheds light on the significant disparities in medication costs between the United States and many other countries. The difference in pricing is attributed to various factors, including healthcare policies and regulations in France that prioritize affordable access to necessary medications. Hilary’s experience emphasizes the challenges that many patients face in the U.S., where high drug prices can limit treatment options and negatively impact their health.

The story reveals the broader implications of healthcare disparities globally, illustrating how one's geographical location can dramatically affect access to essential medical needs. As conversations around healthcare reform in the U.S. continue, Hodge's experience may contribute to a larger dialogue on how to create a more equitable system that ensures no one has to choose between financial stability and their health needs.