Patient Assistance for Prescriptions

Patient assistance programs help patients that cannot afford their medications.

Many people rely on prescription drugs these days. Unfortunately, many prescription medications are rather expensive. People without health insurance often struggle to pay for the medications they need. Fortunately, many pharmaceutical companies have patient assistance programs.

Patient Assistance Programs

Many prescription drug companies have patient assistance programs that make prescription medications available at no cost to patients in need. Patients may apply for assistance with multiple drug companies if needed.

Eligibility

Each pharmaceutical company has its own criteria. In general, patients must be uninsured, have low incomes and have a written statement from their doctors verifying that they need particular medications. Patients that qualify for Medicare Part D or Medicaid usually are not eligible.

Length of Assistance Programs

Some companies provide assistance indefinitely, while others provide assistance for a limited time only. Some companies allow patients to apply for assistance more than once.

Companies With Patient Assistance Programs

Many companies offer patients assistant programs, including Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Bristol-Meyers Squibb, Duramed Pharmaceuticals, Genetech Inc., GlaxoSmithKline, Immunex Corporation and Novartis. Contact the manufacturer of your medication to find out if it offers a patient assistance program.

While You Wait

It can take several weeks to get signed up for some patient assistance programs. While you wait, ask your doctor if she can give you some free samples of your medication, so you don't miss any doses.

References

• Dr. Pacita David, Psychiatrist, Cincinnati, Ohio.
• Partnership for Prescription Assistance: Participating Patient Assistance Programs