Medication Access

Sample Answer

The Issue: Medication Access for Uninsured/Underinsured Chronic Disease Patients

Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and heart failure require long-term medication adherence for effective management, prevention of complications, and maintenance of quality of life. Lack of prescription coverage (no insurance, high deductibles, high co-pays, being in a plan with limited formularies) is a significant barrier, potentially leading to non-adherence, disease progression, costly emergency care, and increased morbidity and mortality. Addressing this requires a multi-faceted approach involving healthcare providers, patients, communities, and external organizations.

Strategies to Address Medication Access Issues:

1. Financial Assistance Programs (FAPs): The Backbone of Formal Support

• Description: These include both government-sponsored and manufacturer-sponsored programs designed to reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket medication costs.
  • Government Programs: Medicaid (for eligible low-income individuals and families), Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) (for eligible low-income Medicare beneficiaries), state-specific pharmaceutical assistance programs, and sometimes local county or city health department assistance.The Issue: Medication Access for Uninsured/Underinsured Chronic Disease Patients