For those who are unemployed or have suffered the devastation of a natural disaster, a major concern is how to afford prescription medications. As the health care law and its legalities undergo ongoing debate, many individuals who do not currently have prescription coverage are greatly concerned about the immediate need to obtain their prescription medications. For those who are unemployed or lack prescription coverage, it may be well to investigate Prescription Assistance Programs to determine eligibility for program participation. Policies vary according to the organizations sponsoring the programs. It is advisable to call the Prescription Assistance Program’s toll free number or visit its website listed at the end of the article for further information.
What is the Prescription Assistance Program
The Prescription Assistance Program is a collaborative group of doctors, health care professionals, patient advocacy groups and pharmaceutical companies working together to assist eligible patients who do not have prescription coverage to obtain their prescription medicines.
Who is Eligible?
Each patient assistance program has its own qualifying criteria; you may be asked to submit information about citizen status, assets and veterans’ benefits to determine your eligibility for the program.
Length of time for Application Process to be Completed
The sponsoring assistance program determines the length of time for processing its application. You will be required to answer questions about the needed medication and other pertinent questions. Information required may include questions about where you reside, nature of illness, medications taken, name of health provider and other relevant information.
How is the Medication Received
The prescription medication will be mailed to the attending physician or to the patient. A pharmacy card may be sent to some patients that can be used to get the prescription medication free or at a nominal cost at the local pharmacy.
Prescription Cost
Each prescription assistance program varies. Depending upon eligibility factors, you may receive medications free of charge if you have no insurance coverage or have difficulty paying for your prescriptions. If you have drug coverage currently, it is possible that you may be eligible for services from some patient assistance programs. If you are a Medicare recipient and possess a Medicare approved drug discount card there may be patient assistance programs for which you may qualify. If a natural disaster has hit your area, you may qualify for assistance in obtaining medication through the Prescription Assistance Program.
To find out whether or not you or other family members are eligible to receive services through the Prescription Assistance Programs, the best advice is to talk with your health provider or visit the website www.pparx.org for additional information. The website is easy to navigate and has a FAQ section which explains eligibility and program requirements. This advice is offered free of charge and at no time are you asked to pay for information. If an organization charges you a fee for “consultation,” immediately hang up the phone or walk out of that office because it is not a part of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance Program. To contact the organization by phone, call toll free 1-888-477-2669.