A: You may be able to get financial assistance from a drug manufacturer while you are in the Donut Hole. If your income is below a certain level – and that level varies from one company to another – you may qualify for getting your drugs at no cost directly from the manufacturer. Here are a few examples of programs that can save you money while you are in the Donut Hole:
Novo Nordisk covers Levemir for those with incomes at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). That’s $36,180 for an individual or $48,720 for a couple.
The Merck Patient Assistance Program covers Januvia for people who make less than 400% of the FPL. That’s $48,240 for an individual or $64,960 for a couple.
AstraZeneca’s AZ&Me Program helps people on Medicare who have spent at least 3% of their income on Part D medications. Drugs covered on this program include Arimidex, Byetta and Symbicort.
Go ahead. Check to see if there is a program for your expensive medication at
www.needymeds.org.