For many people, affording medications is a difficult hurdle to overcome. New medications tend to be prohibitively expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Even when drugs are covered by insurance, the copays can add up quickly for those who take several medications.
Fortunately, there is hope when you can't afford your drugs. It will take work on your part -- it won't be fun and it might be hard -- but it is preferable to the alternative which is going without.
Is a Generic Version Available?
The first step is to determine if you can switch to a less expensive generic version of the drug. It's likely your pharmacist will suggest this if your doctor does not. However, if neither of them mentions it -- don't be afraid to ask! They have many patients who are on a budget, and they will understand.
If the medication is too new for a generic version to be available, you can contact the company that makes the drug directly. They don't advertise them, but many companies have drug assistance programs available. This may take some detective work on your part, as you will need to find out the name of the company which makes the drug, and get a phone number for patient-related concerns. A company that can help with finding the name and number for the pharmaceutical company is Needymeds.com. They maintain a database of companies categorized by the drugs they produce. You can search this list and get an address, phone number, web site, and other information about drug assistance programs.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Often these drug assistance programs work with the cooperation of the patient, the physician, and the drug company. Your doctor may need to call the company and fill out one or more forms. Again, don't be afraid to ask for this help. Doctors are there to help you get the care you need, and they would rather fill out some forms than have you go without the drugs necessary to manage your condition.
Another option is to apply for Medicaid. Medicaid is described as "a jointly-funded, Federal-State health insurance program for certain low-income and needy people." Criteria for acceptance into the Medicaid program is not based on income alone, and varies by state. You will want to contact the agency in your state to help you determine if you qualify, and if your prescription medications will be covered.
Does Your State Have a Drug Assistance Program?
Some states offer their own programs to help cover the cost of prescription drugs. These State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs are available in 32 states. The National Conference of State Legislatures maintains a list of contact information (including web sites) for these assistance programs.
And last, but not least, ask your doctor if he or she has any samples. Obviously this is not sustainable for a long period of time, but a few samples might be able to hold you over until a real solution is found.
