Many individuals who are uninsured or underinsured are not able to afford medication to effectively manage their illness. Fortunately, the founders of NeedyMeds have developed a web site that provides up-to-date information on how to obtain prescription drugs at a reduced rate from pharmaceutical companies.
NeedyMeds is a non-profit organization that helps individuals to find assistance programs that will greatly reduce the cost of medications. It is an online resource that directs you to specific Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) based on the medication that you need. PAPs are formed by pharmaceutical companies to offer free or discounted prescription drugs to individuals who can not afford them.
The NeedyMeds web site includes an easy-to-use database that allows you to locate the brand name or generic drugs that your physician has prescribed for you. An application and enrollment information is available online from each pharmaceutical company on how to participate in their specific PAP.
NeedyMeds has a list of 800 participating and non-participating pharmaceutical companies and programs that you can receive enrollment information.
NeedyMeds web site also includes coupons and rebates for select drugs offered by pharmaceutical companies.
If you want help in applying for a PAP program, there are several local organizations that will assist you for free or a minimal charge based on your geographic area. In Colorado, there are currently 8 organizations that will help you complete your application.
- RxAssist at Centura Health
- RxAssist Program at St.AnthonyHospital
- Senior Information and Assistance Center
- La Puente Home – Outreach Services/Health Access
- Healthcare Access
- Promoting Safe and Stable Families
- McKee Medical Center Prescription Assistance
- East Central Area Agency on Aging – Prescription Assistance
In addition to these Colorado organizations, there are currently 12 state-sponsored programs that will assist you in the enrollment process. These programs can also be located on the NeedyMeds web site.
The NeedyMeds web site includes contact information on 2,500 imaging providers nationwide that will provide discounted MRI/CT scans. 50-75% discounts are available. Most will allow same day or next day scheduling.
For students dealing with specific medical conditions, there is a list of available scholarships that will help with the cost of education based on the medical condition and geographic location.
The NeedyMeds web site can be found at http://www.needymeds.org/index.htm