ACCESSING MEDICATIONS

The state AIDS Drug Assistance (ADAP) programs are a part of the Ryan White Program that specifically helps patients with HIV access their medications. Each year 59 jurisdictions received ADAP earmark funding including 47 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each state operates its own ADAP, including determining eligibility.

To locate the ADAP program in your area, visit: Directory of AIDS Drug Assistance Programs

Some states have experienced state budgetary shortfalls that have lead to waiting lists for patients to access state ADAP programs. However, for patients on ADAP waiting lists, a private partnership now offers a resource for accessing HIV medications

If your patient is on an ADAP waiting list, Welvista Pharmacy may be able to help.

ADAP Crisis

The state AIDS Drug Assistance (ADAP) programs many states have experienced state budgetary shortfalls that have lead to lengthy waiting lists for patients to access state ADAP programs. As of July 2011, there are over 8000 individuals in the US waiting to access state ADAP programs. However, for patients on ADAP waiting lists, a private partnership now offers a resource for accessing HIV medications

If your patient is on an ADAP waiting list, Welvista Pharmacy can help.

Patient Assistance Programs

Many pharmaceutical drug companies have programs to provide free medications to people with no insurance, inadequate insurance, or financial difficulties. These Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) are each individuals to the company that offers them. Each PAP has different requirements, and often requires a healthcare provider to access the program on behalf of the patient. The links below are provided to help you find the correct patient assistance program for your patients.

The Fair Pricing Coalition also publishes this printable guide to accessing patient assistance programs for HIV and Viral Hepatitis drugs.

Patient Assistance and Co-Pay Programs for HIV and Viral Hepatitis Drugs

Medicare

Some Medicare beneficiaries could qualify for assistance with their prescription drug costs, and be eligible this year to pay no more than $2.50 for generic drugs and $6.30 for each brand name drug.

The steps beneficiaries can take to check if they qualify for the Medicare Low-Income Subsidy Program (also known as LIS or “Extra Help”) are simple and may be done by phone or online. Qualification is based on income (beneficiaries’ incomes must be less than $16,335 a year or $22,065 for married couples) and access to other resources.

Medicare beneficiaries, family members, trusted counselors or caregivers can apply online in English and Spanish at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp.

Beneficiaries may also call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778) and ask for the “Application for Medicare’s Part D Extra Help.”

Local SHIP contact information can be found online at www.medicare.gov/contacts/organization-search-criteria.aspx. All information provided is confidential.

To learn more about Medicare prescription drug coverage, visit www.medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

Other Resources:

Other programs for patient medication assistance reach beyond just HIV medications. Below are some links to other resources for a variety of medication assistance programs available to patients.