FREE RESOURCES TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO FREQUENTLY PRESCRIBED HIGH-COST MEDICATIONS

Medications are expensive because discovering, developing and delivering safe and effective medications is complicated and expensive. Tufts University Center for the Study of Drug Development, Boston Massachusetts estimates the average cost for a new drug, including the cost of failed programs, to be approximately $2.5 billion since mid-2010s.

Pharmaceutical companies offer a variety of patient support programs to assist with patient access to treatments. These programs may be direct patient assistance in the form of co-pay cards, discount cards or free/discounted medications for uninsured or underinsured patients.

The pharmaceutical companies may also help the patient with determining insurance eligibility, prior authorization and insurance denial appeal assistance.

Provider shortage is making it difficult to have extended clinic visits. For complicated diseases, pharmaceutical companies may provide nurse and case manager hotlines. Nurses and case managers help the patients understand their disease and treatment options and provide lifestyle tips. They support the patient with treatment adherence plans. Pharmaceutical companies may offer peer support groups and counseling platforms to the patients.

For clinical trials participants, the pharmaceutical companies may offer transportation and lodging support.

Pharmaceutical companies may also provide resources for providers for appropriate use of their drugs. Combined, these programs are designed to ease the treatment process by reducing financial, logistical, and emotional barriers, ensuring patients receive the care they need.

MiOra will compile these resources on one, easy-access location.