Many of the medications used to treat chronic gastrointestinal conditions are expensive, even with insurance coverage. It is an unfortunate reality that, at times, our patients will go without medication because they cannot afford it.
Megan was informed that a patient received her two-week supply of medication, two pens for injection, at a cost of $1,600. She required weekly injections and needed two more pens and was informed the cost would be an additional $1,600. The patient did not have sufficient funds to pay this amount.
Megan was concerned for the patient and knew she needed her medication and was going to do whatever she could to help ensure the patient was able to get it.
Megan made numerous calls to verify order information and proper insurance coverage for the patient. Megan also reached out to the pharmacist and her supervisor and director for insight. Megan was informed that, per the patient's insurance, the patient still would be required to pay the high cost.
As a final effort, Megan reached out to a drug company, explained the situation and asked if there were any resources available. She was told the patient would qualify for an assistance program, and after many calls and coordination, the patient received her medication at no cost.