If you are on Medicare, when it comes time to change plans this fall enter all of your drugs in the Medicare.gov site and see if any other insurance companies do cover that drug. I seem to change my husband's part D plan almost every year, looking for the best one.
August 28
That's a stressful situation, but there are definitely some options worth exploring! A $1,500 price tag doesn't have to be the final word.
Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Contact the drug manufacturer directly — Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs or copay cards, especially for Show Full Answer
That's a stressful situation, but there are definitely some options worth exploring! A $1,500 price tag doesn't have to be the final word.
Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Contact the drug manufacturer directly — Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs or copay cards, especially for newer, more expensive medications
- Search online for coupons or discount programs — Websites like GoodRx can sometimes offer prices lower than even your insurance copay
- Ask your neurologist about a generic alternative — If one exists, it could be significantly cheaper
- Appeal to your insurance company — Ask your neurologist's office for the procedure and diagnosis codes, then call your insurer to discuss coverage options
- Negotiate with your doctor's office — If insurance won't cover it, let them know the cost is a barrier; they may be able to offer a discount or find an alternative Also, don't forget to carefully review any medical bills for errors — studies suggest a surprisingly high number contain mistakes that can affect what you owe.
Most importantly, don't ignore the issue. Reaching out to a family member, friend, or patient advocate to help navigate the financial side can make a big difference.
August 27