Patient Assistance Programs for Antiepileptic Medication: Who Needs Assistance?
Abstract number :
3.229
Submission category :
Year :
2001
Submission ID :
938
Source :
www.aesnet.org
Presentation date :
12/1/2001 12:00:00 AM
Published date :
Dec 1, 2001, 06:00 AM
Authors :
C.G. Bennett, MSW, Oregon Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital, Portland, OR; N.K. So, MD, Oregon Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital, Portland, OR; W.B. Smith, MD, Oregon Comprehensive Epilepsy Program
RATIONALE: Maintaining an adequate supply of antiepileptic medication is a critical factor in successful treatment of epilepsy. Some patients cannot afford the medications prescribed by their physicians. This study looks at our clinic patients who are on patient assistant programs and the factors which contribute to their need for assistance.
METHODS: All epilepsy patients currently on medication assistance programs in our clinic were surveyed using a structured interview. Additional information was obtained from the medical records. Questions included source of initial referral for medication assistance programs, source of income, insurance status and family composition information.
RESULTS: 30 patients were included in the study, one patient chose not to participate. More than half of the patients (57%) had been referred for assistance by their doctor. Most of the study patients lived alone (67%), were receiving Social Security Disability (70%) and had Medicare (which has no RX coverage) as their only insurance (70%). The average monthly income per family was $987, and the average monthly value of the medication obtained through an assistance program was $191. Most patients (73%) took additional medications which they paid for out-of-pocket. The majority of study patients did not feel their situation would change significantly, necessitating an on-going need for medication assistance. When asked what they would do if assistance were not available 40% said they would pay for the medication, 37% said they would do without the medication, 13% reported they would take less than full dose and 10% said they would switch to a less expensive medication if available.
CONCLUSIONS: Patient assistance programs provide antiepileptic medication to a group of patients who might not otherwise be able to maintain an adequate supply of medication. Three psychosocial factors are associated with the need for medication assistance in our population: Social Security Disability being the sole source of income,insurance coverage through Medicare only and living alone.