Interesting info. about Betaseron.

[michelleric]

Hi all,

I went to an MS support group this week. It was wonderful. 2 MS nurses lead it, and there was a MS advocate, who is a social worker that also brings information. It has been going strong for 12+ years, really good group. They also had muffins, candy and bottles of water, need I say more LOL.

Anyway, they told us that Betaseron, the company that makes it, I cant remember the name, will be doing away with co-pays. They will accept what the insurance gives, and will not expect any more from the patient. The nurse said, the rest of the injectables will follow (Copaxone, Rebif, Avonex). They "always" follow each other to stay competitive. That is a GREAT thing.I hope she was/is right.

Just passing on some good news,

Michelle

[LoveMyBostons]

Whoa, I got my hopes up for a minute there. It would be so nice if it was easier to get these meds. I keep saying someone should be paying me to take this stuff! But Copaxone is like $24,000 per calendar year. Back to the old drawing board.

[Quixotic1]

I'm still in the Medicare loop hole.  So that does not benefit anyone on Medicare or Social Security Disability.

But, thanks for the info, Lu.

drat

Q

[Lulu54]

Thanks Michelle for this great news - here's hoping it spreads.

The details on this program are at---

http://www.betaseron.com/patients/about_betaseron/affording_betaseron.jsp

but here's the fine print .....
* Some restrictions apply. Copay assistance is limited to $9500 per patient per calendar year. Patients who are enrolled in any type of government insurance are not eligible. Patients are required to report any benefits they receive, e.g. copay refunds, to their insurance company. Void where prohibited by law, taxed, or restricted. Patients enrolled in Bayer's Patient Assistance Program are not eligible.

if this program spreads to the other dmd's it would be great news for all of us paying out of pocket.

be well,
Lulu

[jensequitur]

I hope so too!  Can't afford my meds right now, which is ridiculous - I pay for health insurance so I'll have coverage, but can't afford the medication it provides.