Samuel Rulon-Miller manages the blog the NeedyMeds Voice, part of NeedyMeds.org, a Massachusetts nonprofit with resources for people seeking help with the cost of medicine. Launched in January of 2013, the NeedyMeds Voice focuses on presenting readers with timely, provocative pieces on healthcare reform, patient advocacy, medication and healthcare access, and other health-related news. This post previously appeared on the NeedyMeds blog.
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Applying to a Patient Assistance Program (PAP)
By Samuel Rulon-Miller
Today many Americans find themselves struggling to pay for their medications, unfortunately leading to difficult choices between paying for food, rent, or prescriptions. Luckily pharmaceutical companies and other organizations are aware of this fact, and some are doing what they can
to help alleviate costs for those struggling financially. For many drugs that may seem too expensive to afford there are Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs). These programs offer the drugs at little to no cost to the consumer.
Finding a Program for your Medication
To apply for a PAP, first make sure one is available for your medication. You can look up each PAP alphabetically on the NeedyMeds site here. There are both brand name and generics listed. Once you find your drug, click on the name of the medication to get to the program details page. Here all of the contact information for the program is listed, along with the application form. You will need to contact the program directly to apply.
Eligibility Requirements
Every Patient Assistance Program has it’s own set of guidelines and requirements. Most programs require that you are a legal United States resident. Many of them also have an income requirement and ask for a tax return or pay stub to prove your income level. Another common requirement is a diagnosis. If you are taking a medication for off-label use you may be out of luck. It is also common for the program to accept only uninsured or underinsured patients, or those on Medicare part D.
Application
Once you have called the program and discussed your eligibility, the next step is to download and complete an application form. Most applications are number of pages long, with portions for both you and your doctor to complete. Be sure to double-check your application before sending it in, as mistakes on the form can cause a delay in receiving your medication. Most programs take 1-2 weeks to determine if you are accepted, with another 1-2 weeks for delivery of the medication.
Extra tips
We recommend contacting the program even if you do not meet the eligibility requirements – in many instances they will allow you to enter the program. When speaking with a call center representative always be courteous. They get many calls every day and being friendly is always a welcome approach.
