Programs for People With Prescription Drug Coverage

People who don't have insurance coverage but need prescriptions can seek help from a variety of programs. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, individuals should talk to their doctors if they have problems paying for prescriptions. In addition, drug manufacturers can assist individuals who can't afford their medications.

Merck Patient Assistance Program

• The Merck Patient Assistance Program helps individuals who are either uninsured or don't meet insurance criteria because of preexisting conditions. To qualify for the prescription program, people must meet the Merck eligibility requirements. For instance, individuals must be a U.S. resident and have a prescription for Merck medication. Also, people can't have any other insurance coverage such as private insurance, Medicare, veteran assistance or social service agency support, according to Merck. Most importantly, the program is for people who can't afford to pay for their medication, so they must meet income requirements. As of 2010, individuals with one person in the household must have an income of $43,320 or less, according to Merck. To apply, people must complete an application and have their physician sign it. Then individuals must send the application to Merck.

Assurant Health Prescription Discount

• The Assurant Health Prescription Discount Plan gives people who want prescription drug coverage a discount for a monthly fee. As of 2010, there is a monthly fee of $7.95. Individuals can save from 10 percent to 60 percent on their prescriptions. The plan also covers eye care, hearing and nutritional supplements for individuals and their families. Also, the prescription program covers skin care products. The prescription drug plan also covers prescriptions through retail and mail order pharmacies. However, the Assurant Health prescription discount program is not health insurance.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance

• The Partnership for Prescription Assistance program helps low-income, uninsured individuals obtain prescription drug coverage. This program helps them obtain medications for little to no money. The program is a collaborative effort among U.S. doctors, pharmaceutical companies and other organizations. Applicants must meet certain requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, according to the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. The program covers generic and brand name prescription medication. Once individuals qualify they pick up their medication at their doctor's office.