3 Myths About Patient Assistance Programs (Debunked)

I’ve spent a decade in the trenches of healthcare advocacy, and I hear the same few excuses every single day. People are suffering, skipping their doses, and draining their savings because they believe a lie they heard about Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs).

Let’s clear the air right now. If you think these programs aren’t for you, you’re probably wrong.

Myth 1: "I make too much money to qualify."

This is the big one. People think you have to be at the poverty line to get help. In reality, many manufacturers have income limits that reach up to 400% or 500% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a household of two, that could be an income of nearly $100,000. If your medication costs $1,300 a month, the system understands that you aren't "rich" enough to pay that, even with a decent salary.

Myth 2: "My insurance is too good for this."

Actually, having insurance—even "good" insurance—doesn't disqualify you. If you have a high deductible or if your co-pay for a brand-name drug like Eliquis is $200+, you are technically "underinsured" for that medication. Many PAPs will step in and provide the drug for free because your insurance is failing to make it affordable.

Myth 3: "It's just a temporary coupon."

Don't confuse a PAP with a pharmacy coupon or a "copay card." Coupons have annual caps and expire. PAPs are ongoing clinical programs. Once you are enrolled through an advocate, you are in the system for the long haul.

The system is designed to be confusing so you don't use it. We exist to make sure you do. We handle the 20-page forms and the income verification so you can actually get the relief you deserve.

Stop believing the myths. See if you qualify for $40/mo meds.