What is a Patient Assistance Program (PAP)?
PAPs are benefit programs that are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies to help individuals access high-cost brand-name medications, which may otherwise be unaffordable. Qualified individuals can receive medications for no cost.
PAPs allow physicians to prescribe brand medications that are clinically preferred but which would otherwise be unaffordable for the patient.
How can I find out if my brand-name medication has a PAP?
You can use the NowPatient Patient Assistance Program search to see if there is a PAP available for your brand-name medication.
Do I need to pay for the Patient Assistance Program lookup?
No. There is no charge for this service.
Is a PAP the same as a drug coupon, copay card or copay coupon?
No. PAPs cover the cost of the medication, regardless of insurance status or plan coverage. Copay assistance programs limit the benefit to commercially insured individuals and only cover the cost of the copay or co-insurance.
Who provides the PAP benefit?
PAPs are sponsored by the pharmaceutical manufacturer of a brand name prescription drug.
If a PAP is available for my medication, do I automatically qualify?
No. PAPs are run by pharmaceutical companies that offer you a method of obtaining your brand-name medication for free, subject to eligibility requirements being met. NowPatient provides a useful quiz that can determine if you qualify based on the pharmaceutical companies’ terms and conditions. If you qualify then you can will be provided with information and application forms that will allow you to enroll.
How much do I pay if I use a PAP?
There is usually no cost for you. The medication is provided to you at no cost, by the pharmaceutical company.
If I qualify and enroll into a PAP, can I get my medication at my own pharmacy?
This depends on the plan sponsor. Some pharmaceutical companies will send you a card which can allow you to obtain the medication at your local pharmacy for free. Other pharmaceutical companies will send the medication directly to your home or to your doctor’s office. NowPatient will explain the method of supply after you complete the eligibility quiz.
Can I qualify for a PAP if I am uninsured or underinsured with no drug coverage?
Yes. Almost all PAPs require you to be uninsured, underinsured with no drug coverage, or insured but unable to afford your co-pay or co-insurance contribution.
Can I qualify for a PAP if I am commercially or privately insured but unable to afford my co-pay or co-insurance contribution?
Yes, you may qualify. There are certain eligibility requirements to determine qualification and these requirements vary between pharmaceutical companies. When you complete the NowPatient eligibility quiz, you will find out if you qualify.
Can I qualify for a PAP if I have state, federal or other government insurance?
Yes, you may qualify. There are certain eligibility requirements to determine qualification and these requirements vary between pharmaceutical companies. When you complete the NowPatient eligibility quiz, you will find out if you qualify.
If you do not qualify for a PAP, and if you are finding it difficult to still afford your medication, then there are other forms of assistance. For example, you can apply for LIS (Low Income Subsidy) or extra help is available online at SSA Medicare D Extra Help.
You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). As well, you can look at state assistance programs like Medicaid.