Contributed by Peggy Rost, CSWA, MPA
Many people living with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease find themselves taking several prescription medications. Even with insurance, co-pay costs can add up and become quite expensive. Those on Medicare with significant prescription costs might find themselves falling into the “Donut Hole,” which sounds like a treat but actually refers to a gap in prescription coverage.
The good news is that there are commercial, federal, and state programs that can help reduce the financial burden of medications. Below are some programs and resources that may be helpful.
Good RX
Good Rx is a website where individuals can type in the name of their prescription as well as their current location to find the lowest prices available at retail pharmacies in their area. Good Rx also offers coupons for certain medications and has a discount card that anyone can order. Prices and discounts on Good Rx may be cheaper than insurance co-pays and the service is free. To access savings at Good Rx, go to www.GoodRx.com.
Needy Meds
Needy meds is also a free service and in addition to providing information on lowest prices at local pharmacies, the site will also let an individual know if there are prescription assistance programs available for brand name drugs. Needy Meds also provides information on pharmacy discounts on generic medications, as well as informational videos for medications. Visit www.needymeds.org.
Patient Assistance Programs
As mentioned above, Needy Meds serves as a central hub for finding assistance programs for brand name drugs. These programs can also be found on pharmaceutical companies’ websites. For example, when searching for financial assistance for Rytary, one can go to www.Rytary.com and find information on the “My Rytary” Patient Support Program and learn from a care manager about how they can save on prescription costs.
Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA)
Medicare recipients, individuals over the age of 55, and disabled persons of any age are welcome to contact a team of certified volunteer counselors at the SHIBA program for help making informed health insurance decisions. SHIBA volunteers can help individuals select a Medicare Part D plan that best meets their prescription needs to avoid gaps in coverage. To connect with your local SHIBA team, visit www.shiba.oregon.gov or call 1-800-722-4134.
State Prescription Drug Programs
Both Oregon and Washington offer prescription discount cards for all residents, regardless of age or income. The discount card is available to those who are uninsured or underinsured for prescription drug coverage. To enroll in Oregon’s program, call 1-800-913-4146. To enroll in Washington’s program, call 1-800-913-4146.
Questions about any of these programs? We’re here to help. Contact PRO’s Social Worker, Peggy Rost at 503-496-3174 or [email protected].