I have spent the past couple of weeks reading diary after diary detailing story after story where people in need of a variaty of types of assistance fail to get that assistance. As I contemplated this I began to realize that there really isn't any one program anywhere that details what assistance is available, what type it is, and where to look for help.
This tends to be a daunting task for those who have absolutely no idea where to look first.
This will be my first issue in a series on where to find help, how to get it, and what you are eligible for.
Having worked in a Community Outreach program for some time I have had to tackle hundreds of issues and hope I can be of help.
Issue #1:
You are layed off your job and have lost your health insurance. Your unemployment benefits are not enough for you to live on and you can't pay for your medicine.
First things first: Determine the MONTHLY amount of money you have coming in. This is key in looking for available help. It determines what you are eligible for and where you can get free help.
Can't pay for your medications: Did you know that every single Pharmaceutical company has a program for free medications? Your eligibility is determined thus:
Single? - Income amount ceiling
Single with children? -- Income ceiling is increased
Married with children? --- Income ceiling increases further
Here is an excellent resource for you to use to determine if first you are eligible for free medications from the pharmaceutical companies:
Chart
Once you have determined that you income falls within the guidelines, you are ready to start applying.
To check for a particular medication you can check here
This is a searchable database. Type in the name of your medication and if it is available for free or with assistance, it will bring up a list of where you can apply to get it free. It will also indicate if you can apply on line or download the application.
The application must be signed by your doctor. There will be a portion for him to fill out and he will write the perscription on the form for them to fill. Sometimes these companies send the FIRST shipment of the particular drug to the doctor's office for him to dispense. Thereafter they will ship directly to your house. Make sure your doctor puts in enough refills so you will have an uninterrupted supply for the particular drug you need. NOTE: Every single doctor I know of will be more than happy to sign the form and fill out the prescrition section. If it helps their patient take a medication they want them to take, they will be more than happy to sign the form. They would much rather you be able to take your medication than have you get sicker or suffer.
Here is a comprehensive list of participating programs for free medications you can also check into.
The issue I have faced in helping those needing assistance is that most doctor's do not know what programs exist to help those who can't afford their medications. This is NOT an indictement (sp?) of doctor's, they don't have the time to search out free medications and their staffs most likely are unaware of what programs there are. Let me emphasize, every single pharmaceutical company has patient assistance programs for free or very low cost perscriptions.
What it takes is the task of filling out applications for each and every perscription you need and finding the program that can give you the particular medication. I do this on a regular basis for those without access to/or know how of, a computer. If you are willing to put in the time, you will find programs to assist you with your medications.
Another resource you can use is
here
NOTE: You can't afford to see a doctor to get medication. Rather than try to pay a week at a time for a $150 medication, look for a Community Clinic where you live. You might have to pay for a doctor's visit on a sliding scale depending on your income but it's usually not more than $25 or close to it. Get that first appointment. Establish yourself as a patient and get your perscriptions for whatever your medical issue is.
Don't be too proud to go to a clinic. You would be amazed at how many previously high income people are now being referred to Community health clinics. If it gets you through these tough times it's worth it. Many of these clinics are now offering a full range of medical services. Women's health, mental health, counseling and some even have a dental clinic associated with it. In New York State in particular one well known clinic service is the Hudson Valley Community Health Centers. They charge on a sliding scale and allow you to make small payments. If your income is low enough, you are also eligible for Medicaid and this is accepted as payment in full. They have Mental Health services, women's health, dental and eye care available. They are located in several counties in the Hudson Valley and serve thousands of people. To find a clinic where you can get medical care search
this database.
There are also Mental Health Clinics in every single state. To find one near you, you can search this database. This site is a wonderful tool for you to use to help a friend or relative find a clinic they can afford near them.
Oops, sorry about the misspelling the title, I changed the title just before publishing and didn't proof it. Fixed now.
Edit: I accidentally deleted a paragraph.
Obtain the prescription lists at Walmart, Target and Kmart. Check the lists for any medication you need. These stores have low cost GENERIC prescriptions that are commonly used. (lord I should know how to spell prescription being a nurse, LOL but keep doing a typo) If you find only one medication you can get for $4.00 it's worth it. Every dollar saved helps you feed yourself and keep a roof over your head.
Update in response to a question posted: Dental Assistance
Most community health clinics have a dental clinic as part of the services offered. If your community health clinic does not have a dental clinic they can help you find a resource to get emergency dental care. Also check your state Dental Association website as each state differs and each state has more than one Dental School where you can get full dental services at reduced prices.