State Assistance Programs

So far over 25 states have operational programs to provide some kind assistance or coverage of prescription drugs. Others (Arizona, Arkansas, New Mexico, Oregon and Wisconsin) have enacted laws, and will be operational soon. Majority of the prescription drug assistance programs use state funds to subsidize a portion of the costs, others offer discounts negotiated directly with the prescription drug manufacturers.

Primarily the prescription programs are designed for low-income elderly or persons with disabilities who do not qualify for Medicaid. The age qualifications for state assistance programs are different from state to state. For example in order to qualify there are no restrictions on your minimal age in Wyoming. On the other hand in Kansas, you have to be at least 67 years old.

There are striking difference as well in the amount of income on needs to qualify for the state prescription medicine programs. New York State will qualify you with income of up to $35,000 ($50,000 couples) for EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage) program. By contrast in Indiana your income prerequisite is $11,964 ($16,128 for Couples).

The Programs also differ state to state in the amount and kind of coverage they will offer. Some programs have co-payments, some require deductibles, yet others have set annual benefit limits.

To find out more about your available programs in your state you can log on to National Conference of State Legislators web site at http://www.ncsl.org/programs/health/drugaid.htm (and click on public user). If you have further questions you can always contact your local state government offices or your local chapter of Area Agency on Aging (both phone numbers should available in your local Yellow Pages).