Patient assistance programs are available to help Hep C patients get the Hep C treatment they need. These programs are sponsored by drug companies, doctors, patient advocacy organizations, civic groups and nonprofit organizations. They help low-income, uninsured patients, under insured, or those who need help with co-pays get free or low-cost, brand-name medications and treatment they need.

Many resources exist to help Hep C patients and their families get the proper medical and treatment assistance they need. It’s important to understand the potential out of pocket expenses for your Hep C treatment. Check with your insurance company regarding coverage. There is help if you don’t have insurance, or need help with co-pays with your insurance coverage.

You can contact the pharmaceutical companies and patient assistance programs to find out which assistance is right for your needs. Here at Life Beyond Hep C we have an extended resource list for many of the top patient assistance programs. See our resource list here: Financial Assistance/Patient Assistance Programs.

7 Steps you need to take:

  1. Be seen by your physician: for diagnosis and documented medical treatment recommended.
  2. If you have insurance, be approved for treatment then the patient can apply if help with co-pay is needed. Or if the patient does not have insurance they may be eligible to apply for special programs.
  3. Know the treatment or medication that is recommend and prescribed for you.
  4. Your doctor’s office or pharmacy maybe able to recommend a specific patient assistance group for you depending on your need. Ask for their suggestions.
  5. Contact the patient assistance program to apply.
  6. If more than one grant is needed to cover treatment cost, you can apply to more than one patient assist group.
  7. If one resource isn’t right for you, keep going until you find the resource you need. Be proactive and persistent. The right help is out there for you.

Most pharmaceutical companies offer patient assist programs (PAPs). It’s important for health care providers, patients and caregivers to research and understand the eligibility criteria and application process for specific PAPs as they differ considerably from one program to another.

Most programs require the applicant to have:

  1. Limited or no prescription drug coverage from private or public sources. But even if you have coverage and cannot afford your co-pays you can still be eligible.
  2. A demonstrated financial need based on set income and asset limitations.
  3. Proof of U.S. residence or citizenship. (other countries outside of the U.S. may have patient assist groups or different requirements, check with your physicians office for information if you live outside of the U.S.)

This entry was originally published in Life Beyond Hep C, and is reprinted with permission.