Error processing SSI fileBus tour offers prescription coverage help
Southfield residents learn how to apply for free or low-cost medicines offered by drug companies, others.
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SOUTHFIELD -- Those who lack prescription drug coverage now can gain better access to aid programs through the Partnership for Prescription Assistance of Michigan.
As part of a national effort to help low-income families and those who are uninsured, the organization's "Help is Here Express" bus stopped Tuesday at the Southfield Public Library to raise awareness of the more than 475 patient assistance programs.
Making its way across the country with planned stops in Detroit and Lansing, the bus is equipped with 10 computers, telephones and staff to help residents learn how to apply for free or low-cost medicines offered by pharmaceutical companies and through other public and private programs, said Arlene Gorelick, president of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, which is involved in the initiative.
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance was launched in April and has more than 50 national organizations, such as the American Academy of Family Physicians, involved in creating an information clearinghouse to identify corporate, government and local prescription drug assistance plans and the criteria for participation. The Michigan arm of the group has more than 20 health and civic partners.
"There are about 704,000 uninsured people in Michigan who have problems getting the prescription drugs they need, along with those who are on tight budgets. So we are bringing together as many programs as possible so people can do a sort of a one-stop shop to get the medications they need," Gorelick said.
Residents can go to a Web site set up by the organization and get directed to a prescription drug program. There also is a toll-free number.
"This is wonderful," said Farmington resident Carl Anderson, who is on a fixed income that barely covers his medications and other living expenses.
"It will be good so people don't have to choose between their taking several medications a month to survive, which can cost several hundred dollars, and something else that may also be just as essential," he said. "No one should have to be in that position."
If participants meet income requirements, they may be eligible for free medications or may qualify for a low-cost payment to receive prescriptions from groups like the Greater Detroit Area Health Council, Gorelick said.
You can reach Delores Patterson at (248) 647-7225 or dpatterson@detnews.com.
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