Epilepsy Alliance America and its member organizations are committed to ensuring that patients can have access to the medications they need to manage their epilepsy. We believe the treating healthcare provider(s) should determine the best medication(s) for each patient, in conjunctions with the person with epilepsy and their family and/or caregivers, and that the patient should have access to the medication(s) needed without barriers, including cost.
Several of the member organizations of Epilepsy Alliance America have programs available to help patients access medication:
Additional Resources for Medication Assistance
Navigating the world of prescription drugs can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing costs. The price of medication can be significant. There are numerous ways to obtain discounts on prescription drugs.
Our friends at CURE EPILEPSY have created a resource for understanding the prescription medicine supply chain and how it impacts your access to medication.
Understanding the Landscape of Drug Pricing
The world of drug pricing is complex and hard to decipher. Various factors contribute to the cost of medications, including research and development expenses, marketing, and the complexities of insurance and healthcare systems. For the patient, this often translates to high out-of-pocket expenses, making discounts not just a convenience, but a necessity for many.
Factors Affecting Drug Pricing
- R&D Costs: High costs involved in researching and developing new drugs.
- Regulation: Costs associated with meeting governmental safety and efficacy standards.
- Market Exclusivity: Period during which a patented drug is protected from generic competition.
- Healthcare System: The intricacies of insurance, healthcare providers, and pharmacies impact pricing.
Drug Discount Programs
Below are some links to independent organizations that have programs to help access prescriptions for patients.
Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company
NeedyMeds.org
NeedyMeds.org is a private nonprofit web site that provides information about government programs, low-cost or free medical and dental clinics, and prescription assistance programs. They also list programs that may help people who cannot afford medicines and healthcare costs. You can also find some disease-specific financial aid programs. NeedyMeds.org lets you search for patient assistance programs by drug name. For each drug on the list, NeedyMeds.org gives the program name, phone number, application link, eligibility guidelines, application requirements, and program details.
Medicine Assistance Tool
This web-based tool is provided by members of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This search engine helps patients search patient assistance programs.
PatientAssistance.com
This is a free resource designed for patients who are struggling to afford their prescription medications. This resource helps connect these patients with patient assistance programs.
GoodRx.org
GoodRx coupons can help you pay less than the cash price for your prescription.
EveryLife Foundation
A non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the development of treatment and diagnostic opportunities for rare disease patients through science-driven public policy
GoodDay
Offers copay assistance for patients with chronic and rare diseases.
WellRx
Receive your card immediately and present it at the pharmacy counter to potentially save up to 80%.
RX Assist
Provides a comprehensive directory of patient assistance programs, encompassing drug discount cards, assistance for generic medications, support with medication co-pays, and free or low-cost healthcare options. They also offer resources for Medicare Part D beneficiaries.
Pharmaceutical Patient Assistance Programs
These programs are managed directly by the pharmaceutical companies. Epilepsy Alliance America believes that the decision(s) as to which medication(s) people with epilepsy should be taking should be made with your healthcare provider. Epilepsy Alliance America does not recommend or endorse any medications for people with epilepsy. We provide the list below of Patient Assistance Programs as a resource for patients prescribed these medications.
State Specific Resources
Florida
For Florida residents only. Florida has the Epilepsy Services Medication Program (EMP) which is a safety net program that provides epilepsy medication to clients when they need assistance paying for it.
Drug Discounts for the Elderly
There are several programs designed to assist senior citizens.
Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Medicare Part D is a federal program that helps seniors and individuals with disabilities cover the cost of prescription medications. Beneficiaries can choose from various prescription drug plans (PDPs) that offer different levels of coverage. It’s essential to review your plan annually to ensure it meets your medication needs and budget.
State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
Many states offer SPAPs that provide financial assistance to seniors who meet specific income and asset criteria. These programs can help cover copayments, deductibles, and premiums associated with Medicare Part D.
Senior Discounts at Pharmacies
Several pharmacies offer discounts and savings programs exclusively for seniors. For example, the AARP provides its members with access to savings on prescription medications at participating pharmacies.
Drug Discounts for Children
Children, especially those with chronic medical conditions, may require regular access to prescription medications. Here are some resources for families with children in need:
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
CHIP is a state and federally funded program that provides health coverage to children from low-income families. CHIP typically covers prescription medications, ensuring that children have access to essential drugs.
Pediatric Assistance Programs
Pharmaceutical companies often offer assistance programs for pediatric patients. These programs may provide free or discounted medications for children with specific medical conditions including epilepsy.
This list is not meant to be exhaustive. If you have additional resources to add to this list, please contact Epilepsy Alliance America at admin@epilepsyallianceamerica.org.
Updated June 25, 2024.
Reviewed by the National Professional Advisory Committee, June 12, 2024.