What is a Drug Coupon?
Drug Coupons are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies to help those who are commercially or privately insured but who do not have drug coverage or find it difficult to afford the copay or co-insurance.
It can help lower the out-of-pocket cost to as little as $0 per fill. The Drug Coupons 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 Drug Coupon?
You can use the NowPatient Drug Coupon search to see if there is a Drug Coupon available for your brand-name medication.
Do I need to pay for the Drug Coupon lookup?
No. There is no charge for this service.
Is a Drug Coupon the same as a copay card or copay coupon?
Yes. Drug coupons are also commonly referred to as copay cards, copay coupons or copay assistance programs.
Who provides the Drug Coupon benefit?
Drug coupons are sponsored by the pharmaceutical manufacturer of a brand name prescription drug
If a Drug Coupon is available for my medication, do I automatically qualify?
No. Drug Coupons are run by pharmaceutical companies that offer you a direct way to lower your out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs, 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 download the Drug Coupon and use it at your pharmacy.
How much do I pay if I use a Drug Coupon?
This depends on the terms of the Drug Coupon for your medication. In some cases, you may pay as little as $0 per fill. If you qualify, NowPatient will describe the limitations of the benefit including any caps that may exist.
How do I use a Drug Coupon at my Pharmacy?
You will need to present the Drug Coupon to the Pharmacist when you pick up your prescription. You should let the Pharmacist know that you have a Drug Coupon before your medication is scanned for checkout.
Can I use a Drug Coupon if I am uninsured?
If you are uninsured, this program will not be an available option for you.
Can I use a Drug Coupon if I have state, federal or other government insurance?
No. Drug Coupons cannot be used with state, federal or other government insurance plans. However, if you are finding it difficult to 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.
If I am commercially or privately insured but there is no Drug Coupon available, what can I do if I can't afford my copay or co-insurance?
If you have already tried Medicaid and received a denial letter or if you are insured with Medicare and have been denied Low-Income Subsidy, then you can try one of the following organizational support programs:
Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN) assistance for your medication
If you are having trouble paying for your medication medication due to unaffordable copays or deductibles, the Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN), may be able to assist you. To qualify for PAN assistance for your medication you will need to meet one or all of the following criteria:
Your income is below 400% of the federal poverty level
Your medication is prescribed for an approved FDA indication
You live in and receive treatment in the United States or U.S. territories, even if you do not have U.S. citizenship
If your medication is listed on PAN’s list of covered medications
You can check the Patient Access Network Foundation Website for more information.
HealthWell Foundation Copay Program for your medication
If you are having trouble paying for your medication due to unaffordable copays or deductibles, the HealthWell Foundation Copay Program may be able to assist you. To qualify for assistance for your medication you will need to meet the following criteria:
You live in and are being treated in the United States
You are insured and your plan covers your medication
If your medication is listed on the HealthWell Foundation’s list of covered medications
You can check the HealthWell Foundation Website for more information.
Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief Program for your medication
Patient Advocate Foundation’s Co-Pay Relief program exists to help reduce the financial distress you or your family may face when paying for your medication treatment. If you qualify and can demonstrate the need, the foundation will provide you with direct payment covering co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles. To qualify for assistance for your medication you will need to meet the following criteria:
You must be currently insured and have coverage for your medication
You must have a confirmed diagnosis and treatment plan
You must reside and receive treatment in the United States
Your Income must fall at or below 300% or 400% of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG) with consideration for the Cost of Living Index (COLI) and number in the household
Applications can also be completed by contacting the program sponsor, toll-free at 866-512-3861.
You can check the Patient Advocate Foundation Website for more information.