Programs make Prescription Drugs Available Free

Washington Times, Washington D.C.

March 27, 2003

It has often said that the best things in life are free and that expression can even be applied to something that's usually associated with a high price tag: prescription drugs.

As cost of prescription medications continues to increase, often making them unaffordable for people without insurance, the drug manufacturers themselves are helping get their products to the people who need them practically free of charge.

Many drug manufacturers sponsor what's called "patient assistance programs". These programs are intended to help those who otherwise can't afford prescription drugs-including people who are unemployed or lack health insurance, and seniors who don't have prescription drug coverage under Medicare- obtain the medications they need. In 2001 alone, patient assistance programs helped 3.1 million Americans fill more than 10 million prescriptions - with estimated value of $1.5 Billion.

Most people, however, including qualified doctors, nurses, social workers and other health professionals - are not even aware that these programs exist. Fortunately there is now a volunteer organization dedicated to pointing people in the right direction. The Free Medicine Program cuts though the red tape of application process by helping people enroll in patient assistance programs. It also helps simplify the rules, guidelines and procedures, and helps expedite the submission process. Once patients are approved, the free medication is generally sent just two to three weeks.

Because of the organization's groundbreaking work in this area, physicians nationwide are currently distributing Free Medicine Program brochures to their patients. Even Social Security offices have brochures available to their constitutes.

For more information or to apply, call (800) 921-0072 or visit www.freemedicineprogram.com.