Is there help to pay for medicine

[Michelle867]

I just got a call so they could set up delivery of the meds and had to tell them to hold off after she told me my co-pay.  I have insurance but even then I am going to have to pay over $400 a month.  Is there help out there for paying for this?  Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for having the insurance pay for what they are but I still can't afford that much a month.    Thanks.

[btsmith]

   See page 2 post 2 about costs.

[meki]

Check with the pharmaceutical company that makes the meds that you are getting.

Both the major suppliers of Interferon have assistance programs.

Meki

[Bill1954]

You can contact the following for questions regarding patient financial assistance:

Pegassist (Roche Pegasys system): 1-877-734-2797

Commitment to Care (Schering- Plough PEG-Intron system): 1-800-521-7157

Good luck, and let us know how things work out,

Bill

[NewandConfused]

I so know what you are going through!  Our copayment is almost $600.00 and we too are in a holding pattern.  I conatcted Roche's assistance program and got the application in the mail today but I am sorry to say I don't think they are going to be toohelpful for us at least. They seem to go off of the previous years tax work.  Last year we werew in great shape and could of swung the meds.  Hower hubby is in construction and was laid off in November  - last week was the first week he was back to work and it looks like there will be another lay-off tomorrow.  I am not sure what we are going to do....  The really awful part is that even if we find a way to pay it there would be absolutely no way for us to afford other meds that may become necessary...such as Procrit.  I am so hoping we both can figure something out!  What an awful situation to be in....

[GrandmaBRZ]

I am on procrit. I do have insurance but couldnot pay the copay.  Healthwell Foundation is covering my cost of procrit.  My pharmacist worked through this with me.  I had to fax them tax info, etc., but it was a fairly easy and quick process.  They are easy to find on the internet.  just google healthwell foundation and you will get there.

[Survivin52]

I'm sorry you and so many have to go through this type of thing. You should check with the treating physicians office, they may know of some where for help. Also, you may check for a Local Help C Support Group that may be able to steer you in the right directions, also you could probably contact the Be In Charge Group in California, they are a support center, they maybe able to give some assistance in finding assistance. I don't have the number handy right now, but I'm sure you could Google it and find something. Just trying to come up with ideas, you may have already though about them.
Good Luck
Survivin 52

[Doxie_Lady]

The drug companies who make the drugs such as Pegasys and Co-Pegus (Roche) usually have assistance programs for those who qualify.  You might check with www.pegassist.com.  There are some phone numbers, and you can get a "live" person to help you.  As Survivin 52 said, your doctor's office may be able to help.  Also check with some of the big medical centers doing clinical trials.  If you can get into a trial, there is no cost.  Just a few suggestions.  My local Hep C support group is also very helpful and very supportive.

Best wishes,

Doxie Lady

[Michelle867]

Thank you for your post.  I ended up going thru Roche and they helped me to get my meds.  I've been approved for 6 months and if I'm still on it then I need to reappy.  The process was actually pretty easy, I just had to stay on top of them with phone calls.  I got them last week and started treatment Friday.  So far so good, hardly any side effects at all.  Thanks again!!

[Bill1954]

Glad to hear everything worked out for you. Stay in touch, and let us know how things are going for you.

Best of luck—

Bill

[scratchinghead]

Sure would be nice if the pharma's gave your money back if the treatment didn't work. . . .

But it looks like you are getting treated pretty well by them. Does the copay have an out-of-pocked maximum?

[Michelle867]

Yeah it would be nice wouldn't it?  With Roche Patient Assist Program, if you qualify (based on family size and income) they pick up the entire cost and I don't have to worry about the copay from the insurance...it's wonderful and sure takes a load off of me.  If I would have had to go thru the insurance and pay the copay there is no out of pocket max on meds that I know of.  I would have to pay the $400 monthly regardless of how much it added up to be in the long run.  I do have a max on other things such as procedures.