Medications Costs and Getting What You Need
- Amber
- Feb 1, 2021
- 3 min read
Medications are often utilized in conjunction with therapy to assist in managing mental health symptoms. Many of the "first line of defense" medications can be found on the $4/low cost plans at your local pharmacy, but what do you do when your provider prescribes a medication you cannot afford? There are many ways to lower the costs of medications. It may be difficult to follow through and search for these ways while you are battling lack of energy and motivation, inability to concentrate, or even a lapsing memory. This post is created in hopes of helping others overcome this barrier by knowing what options and savings are available to you.
Knowing Where to Start in the Maze
Your regular MD is often able to prescribe medications to address mild symptoms of depression and\or anxiety. However, it is may be more beneficial to seek the support of someone who specializes in mental health, which may include Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (NP), and\or Psychiatric Physician Assistants (PA). Your therapist should be able to refer you to one of these providers, if you do not already have one. Some therapists, are even able to assist in monitoring side effects of medications in collaboration with a prescribing provide. This is called an interdisciplinary approach to treatment. Talk to your therapist to understand each person's role and abilities in your treatment with medications.
Prior Authorizations
For those medications not on your insurance's formulary list, a prior authorization (PA) will be needed. So, your provider sent a prescription to your pharmacy and you wonder why it is taking so long to fill. You call the pharmacy, only to find out that your insurance rejected the claim due to needing a PA. Hope was soooo close and now it has been delayed and denial of the PA is a possibility. This is one reason it is important to establish care with a psychiatric provider, as they are well aware of what information is needed to get the medication approved, shortening the amount of time you may be tangled up in having the PA be accepted.
The insurance company will, generally, automatically send the needed paperwork to the provider and you do not need to do anything. You may call your provider and ensure they have received the PA request and ask if there is any more information they need from you in order to complete this. Otherwise, it is just a waiting game, but it does not mean that all hope is gone so hang in there!
It Costs How Much?!
Some psychotropic medications are outrageously expensive. Many pharmacies know some cost saving methods. It is best to do your own research and be prepared. Many manufacturers offer discounts directly on their websites. All you have to do is sign up, print the card or take a screenshot, and present it to the pharmacy. These only work with private insurances. Sometimes, it is cheaper to get the name brand drug and then utilize the manufacturers' copay card. You will have to play with the options if you are not able to afford the medications. At the end of this blog, you will find a list of some of the popular manufacturer discount pages.
Samples
Another perk of seeking the care of a psychiatric provider, is they often have SAMPLES! Yes, completely free medication! You may want to ask the provider if they plan on keeping these samples in stock for a long period of time before committing to a medication you are relying on samples for.
Discount Programs
There are several manufacturers which offer direct assistance programs for income qualifying individuals. The qualifying factors will be dependent on factors such as household income and family size. Just remember, it never hurts to apply! To be eligible for these programs, your provider will need to communicate with them as well, so you will have to provide contact information when you apply. Most providers are knowledgeable of these programs and may apply on your behalf. The important detail here is, if you cannot afford your medication....
LET YOUR PROVIDER KNOW BECAUSE THERE ARE OPTIONS!
Select the medication to be sent directly to discount programs for following medications.
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