The short answer
If a medication is unaffordable even with your Part D plan, patient-assistance programs may help. These come in two main forms: drug-manufacturer programs that provide medications free or at low cost to people who qualify, and independent charitable foundations that help cover drug costs, including for Medicare beneficiaries. For someone facing a high bill on an expensive drug, they can be a lifeline.
The key is knowing they exist and how to find the right one for your drug and situation.
How the programs work
Manufacturer patient-assistance programs typically have income limits and require an application, often with your doctor's involvement, and provide the specific drug they make. Independent charitable foundations focus on particular diseases or drug categories and can help Medicare beneficiaries with copays or coinsurance, which is important because manufacturer copay cards aren't allowed with Medicare.
Eligibility varies by program and drug, so the process is drug-specific. Our guide to lowering your prescription costs on Medicare covers where these fit among other savings strategies.
How to find help
Start with the drug's manufacturer to ask about a patient-assistance program, and look into disease-specific charitable foundations for the condition you're treating. Your doctor's office or a pharmacist can often point you to the right program, and social workers at hospitals frequently know these resources well.
Don't give up on an expensive drug without checking — help is more available than most people realize. Our government help center links to assistance resources for Medicare beneficiaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are patient-assistance programs?
Programs that help people afford medications — either from drug manufacturers (providing the drug free or low-cost to those who qualify) or independent charitable foundations that help with drug costs, including for Medicare beneficiaries.
Who qualifies for patient-assistance programs?
Eligibility varies by program, usually based on income and the specific drug or condition. Manufacturer programs often require an application with your doctor's help.
How do I find a patient-assistance program?
Ask the drug's manufacturer, look into disease-specific charitable foundations, and ask your doctor's office, pharmacist, or a hospital social worker, who often know these resources.
Free Consultation
Have Questions About Your Situation?
Every Medicare situation is different. Our Wyoming and Utah advisors provide free, personalized guidance — no pressure, no obligation.