By MICHELE F. MIHALJEVICH
Indiana Correspondent INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Given the state’s economic woes, the “Rx for Indiana” program will probably become even more necessary over the next year, an official with the program said.
Rx for Indiana provides a one-stop database for residents to find help getting their prescription medicines, said Julianna Newland, manager of public affairs with Eli Lilly and Co. The database contains lists of pharmaceutical companies, organizations and government programs offering free or lower-cost prescription medicines, she said.
Residents may apply for the program online or by calling a toll-free number. There is no charge to apply.
“This brings technology and the human touch of volunteers together to help people with their medicines,” she said. “Patients, health care providers or caregivers can easily find out what’s available.”
Each pharmaceutical company or government program has its own criteria for applicants to qualify, Newland said. Most consider some combination of income, age and the cost of the prescription medicine, she added.
Since the state program began in March 2005, 250,000 Hoosiers have been matched with a program offering help with the cost of prescription medicines, she said. More than 288,000 have made contact through the website and toll-free number.
“We’re pleased that over 85 percent of those who have gone online or called in have received assistance,” she said. “The message seems to be getting to the people who need the help.”
In addition to getting free or lower-cost prescription drugs, the program also provides information on generic drugs, when available. “When you get help, you’re getting it based on the medicine that was prescribed to you,” she said. “The program was created for the simplicity of it.”
The forecast for the state’s economy and unemployment will impact the program, Newland said.
“There’s always a need for this type of program, but especially so in the next year or two,” she said. “These are very troubling times for the state. We will be working to be sure a lot more people are made aware of the program and that they get help. I would imagine a year from now, several thousand more people will have a need and have been helped by the program.”
Rx for Indiana officials rely on a network of 90 partner organizations and even more volunteers to get information out about the program’s existence, she said.
“We encourage organizations to spread the word, and we work with a lot of community-based organizations, too,” she said. “There’s a need whenever someone doesn’t have prescription drug benefits or can’t afford their prescription medicines.
“There’s probably a more acute need in rural areas because there are fewer portals to help get the word out.”
Rx for Indiana was initiated by Gov. Mitch Daniels, who recently commended those who have helped spread the word about the program.
“A hearty thanks to those who have logged countless hours to ensure this program’s success,” Daniels said in a statement. “Thousands of Hoosiers have benefited from Rx for Indiana, and with your continued support, we can help even more through this important outreach.”
When Indiana’s program began, only 10-12 states had a similar program, Newland said. Since then, a national database – www.PPARx.org (Partnership for Prescription Assistance) – was started by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Assoc. of America.
“We’re pleased the program has grown as much at it has,” Newland said. “Of course, we always wish there were more people (applying). We know there are more people out there who need help, and we look forward to being there to provide them with that help.”
For information or to apply, go to www.RxforIndiana.org or call toll-free 877-793-0765. December 31, 2008 |
