In 2008, the average retail cost of a prescription in the Milwaukee area was $71.69. Even with the help of Prescription Assistance Programs (PAPs) that distribute free and discounted medications offered by pharmaceutical manufacturers, a large number of vulnerable patients don’t receive the medications they need to manage chronic disease and treat acute conditions. All too often, low-income and uninsured patients forgo getting prescriptions filled, split pills, reduce dosages, and/or sacrifice other basic needs – further compromising their health and productivity.
In 2008, MHCP began a three year pilot at seven safety net clinics in Milwaukee to utilize a PAP software, DrugAssistant. This tool helps streamline complex PAP application processes for clinic staff on behalf of their patients. DrugAssistant software has helped improve clinic efficiency and has resulted in more free or discounted prescriptions getting to patients in need.
In 2010 the Partnership completed a medication access assessment to determine the scope of, and gaps in PAPs offered at FQHCs and safety net clinics. To date, over $100,000 has been secured in grant funding for medication assistance programs. Participating clinic PAPs have served over 1,900 individuals and secured close to 7,900 free prescription medications valued at over $6.5 million in retail price.
Recognizing the health benefit and return on investment achieved by access to free and discounted medications, the assessment laid out additional strategies to expand access including the implementation of the Dispensary of Hope, which though grant funding, will be established at 5 clinic locations in 2011.