In this engaging discussion, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, a health policy correspondent for The New York Times, and Rebecca Robbins, a business reporter specializing in the pharmaceutical industry, explore the historic overhaul empowering Medicare to negotiate drug prices. They dive into the intense lobbying efforts from drugmakers to resist these changes and the potential effects on medication costs for older Americans. The guests shed light on how this could reshape the pharmaceutical landscape, balancing corporate profitability with patient affordability.

Rebecca Robbins, a business reporter for The New York Times specializing in the pharmaceutical industry, delves into the controversial practices of Gilead Sciences. She reveals how the company prioritized profits by delaying a safer H.I.V. treatment. Robbins recounts a retiree's struggle with H.I.V. medications, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by companies that may sacrifice patient safety for financial gain. The discussion illuminates the challenges posed by patent laws and the impact on drug innovation, access, and affordability.

Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins debunks common myths about sleep, emphasizing the importance of 7-9 hours of sleep for overall health. She talks about the impact of natural sunlight on regulating melatonin secretion and provides tips to improve sleep quality like keeping cool before bed and focusing on positive memories.