1. What are Patient Assistance Programs?
These are programs established by pharmaceutical companies to assist individuals who cannot afford their prescription medications. These programs provide medications to qualified individuals free of charge or for a nominal pharmacy fee.
2. Who is eligible?
Eligibility requirements vary according
to each pharmaceutical company’s program guidelines
and can include income, insurance coverage and other
considerations. Generally, the programs are designed
for individuals who cannot afford their prescription
medications due to financial hardships or limited
income.
3. How many medications are offered under
Patient Assistance Programs?
The number changes daily, but is well over 2,000.
4. How do I know if my prescription medication
is covered?
If you have a question about one of your medications, call PASS at 1-800-PASS-4-RX (1-800-727-7479). We are glad to assist!
5. How long does it take for approval?
Once the paperwork has been received
back from your physician(s) and submitted to the PAP(s),
it generally takes 4-8 weeks for processing by the
Patient Assistance Program(s).
6. If I am approved what happens next?
Once you are approved, the pharmaceutical
company mails the medication to your physician’s
office in most cases; some programs mail the medication
to your residence. Understand the decision as to where
the medication will be shipped is determined by the
program’s policy and regulations.
7. What about refills?
PASS handles all refills automatically as long as your physician continues to prescribe the medication(s).
8. Is there a time limit on these programs?
Yes, each program has a set period of approval, generally from 3 months to 12 months. At the time you are required to reapply, PASS will automatically reapply on your behalf as long as you continue to be eligible and are taking the prescribed medication; this is what we call "worry-free, full-service prescription assistance."
9. What happens if none of my medications
are covered under a Patient Assistance Program?
If we determine your prescription medications or personal information make you ineligible for any assistance, we fully refund your PASS enrollment fee.
10. What if something changes with my approved
medication?
PASS must be notified immediately if there is a change to your medication(s) (e.g. your physician has discontinued use of a medication, there is a dosage change, etc…). PASS requires a minimum of 30-days notice to effect any changes or cancellations for an approved medication. If you simply have a new prescription medication added to your regimen, call PASS and we will verify eligibility.
11. Are generic medications covered?
Generally, no. However, in most instances your physician can prescribe a brand-name equivalent that is covered.
12. What if there is a problem?
Your satisfaction is our number one
priority. You can call us toll free at 1-800-727-7479
with any questions or problems.
