Charitable Foundation Programs
- Patient Advocate Foundation: Assistance for patients with chronic, life-threatening, or debilitating conditions
- HealthWell Foundation: Assistance for patients with specific conditions (cancer, MS, RA, etc.)
- Patient Access Network Foundation: Assistance for patients with specific conditions
- NeedyMeds: Database of patient assistance programs
- RxAssist: Database of patient assistance programs
Foundation Assistance Eligibility
Foundation assistance is typically available for patients with specific conditions and financial need. Eligibility criteria vary by foundation and program — income limits, insurance status, and condition-specific requirements. A specialty pharmacy with foundation assistance navigation capabilities can identify eligible patients and manage the application process.
Compliance Considerations
Compliance Note
Foundation assistance programs are legitimate and legal for commercially insured patients. However, manufacturer-funded foundations — foundations funded by the drug manufacturer whose drugs the foundation covers — raise anti-kickback concerns for Medicare and Medicaid patients. For commercial plan members, manufacturer-funded foundations are generally permissible. Consult legal counsel if you have questions about specific foundation programs.