MAP

What is MAP?
Many local doctors are aware of the “Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs” that many drug companies offer to help their patients who can’t afford their prescription medications. However, the problem is in the time it takes to complete and send in all the necessary paperwork in order to receive free or reduced medications. Many of the companies require lengthy forms to be filled out in order to access their programs. Most local doctors and their staff do not have the time to accomplish this task. The idea that one, centralized person could do this exorbitant amount of paperwork was then born. The formation of the Medication Assistance Program became a collaborative effort between Community Action of Southeast Iowa, local doctors, pharmacists, and social workers. The program started on July 22, 2002.

How does MAP work?
Doctors refer patients whom they believe could benefit from this program, to our employee at the Community Action Center in Burlington. The employee currently works thirty (30) hours per week, takes the referrals from the doctors, contacts the patients, obtains the necessary forms, and assists the individual in filling out the applications. The prescribing physician then signs the forms and the medications are sent directly to the patient or to the doctor.

Who can utilize MAP?
An individual is eligible for this assistance if they meet the following criteria:

• They must meet the eligibility guidelines set by the specific Drug Company that manufactures the medication they need.
• The patient is not covered or eligible for any employer’s health insurance plan that covers prescriptions.
• They must have a definite need for “chronic” prescription assistance.

The criteria for receiving the medications at a free or reduced cost vary from company to company, though. Each person would have to meet the eligibility guidelines for the specific company they are requesting assistance from in order to get the medication.

Does MAP really help?
MAP is definitely helping address the issue many people are forced to face; “Purchasing their medications or foregoing them for other necessary expenses like food.” In the time MAP has operated it has assisted over a thousand clients save several millions of dollars in prescription costs. A great return on investment, Community Action of Southeast Iowa truly believes that this preventative approach to healthcare services results in health improvement in our community.
For information on the Medication Assistance Program (MAP) or to make an appointment, please call (319) 753-2893.