How to Get Help Paying for Expensive Medications
Prescription Assistance Programs: Get the Help You Deserve
Learn how a prescription assistance program can help you access costly name-brand medications at low or no cost. Discover how Prescription Assistance Programs work and what are some options to consider.
Struggling With High-Cost Medications? Get the Help You Need
Even with health insurance, many people can’t afford the name-brand prescriptions they need. Prescription Advocacy Programs work with manufacturers and patient assistance programs to help you get your medications at little to no cost.
Prescription Advocacy 101
What Are Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Patient Assistance Programs, often called PAPs, are programs sponsored by pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide free or discounted medicines to people who can’t afford them. They’re designed for patients who meet certain income and medical requirements and typically focus on costly, name-brand medications.
Why Do So Many People Need It?
- Rising Drug Costs: Even with insurance, co-pays and deductibles for specialty medications can be thousands of dollars per month.
- Gaps in Coverage: Not every plan covers every drug — and appeals can be confusing or time-consuming.
- Manufacturer Rules: Many drug companies offer help, but each program has its own forms, proof of income rules, doctor paperwork, and deadlines. These programs are time consuming and confusing.
Advocates handle the paperwork for you, so you don’t have to navigate it alone. Click here to explore some advocate programs
How Do Patient Assistance Programs Work
- 1️ Check Eligibility: Each manufacturer has its own income and medical requirements.
2️⃣ Apply for Help: This usually means submitting forms, proof of income, and a doctor’s prescription.
3️⃣ Receive Your Medications: If approved, your medication is typically shipped directly to your doctor’s office or pharmacy.
Who Qualifies
- ✔️ Patients taking name-brand or specialty medications with high retail costs.
✔️ Those who meet income guidelines set by the drug manufacturer’s program.
✔️ People with limited or no prescription drug coverage — or who are stuck paying thousands out-of-pocket.
✔️ Patients who want ongoing support with renewals and appeals.
How PAP's Fit Into Your Overall Coverage
Prescription assistance is not insurance, but it can work alongside your health plan — whether you have a marketplace plan, limited medical coverage, or no coverage at all. By combining a prescription assistance program with other healthcare options, you can help protect yourself from overwhelming out-of-pocket costs.
Why Many People Get Help Applying
While these programs can provide big savings, the process isn’t always simple. Each drug company has its own rules, forms, and deadlines. Many people find it helpful to work with a prescription advocacy service to guide them through eligibility checks, applications, and yearly renewals.