My best friend is on Medicare with a supplemental plan. She has been fighting cancer and just went through a 12 hour surgery. Doctors have her on several expensive medications with out of pocket expenses of over $400. Does anyone have any recommendations on who she could go through to get the medication costs reduced???
Thank you!
Becky G
Pharmacists aren't allowed to volunteer if or how to get drugs cheaper. But they are allowed to answer if you ask explicitly. So ask. Many drugs are cheaper without insurance than with it. You heard me right. It can be cheaper to pay in cash with no insurance than to pay your copay with insurance. I always ask.
Unfortunately, for specialized drugs like for cancer. That will probably not be the case. Still doesn't hurt to ask. As others have pointed out, check with the manufacturers. Some will even have programs to waive the cost completely if someone is destitute.
Also, The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC) is a group of national organizations that provide financial help to patients. CFAC provides a searchable database of financial resources. CancerCare (800-813-4673) provides limited financial assistance for co-pays, transportation, home care, and child care.