Financial Assistance
Treatment of psoriasis can be expensive, but cost shouldn’t be a barrier to treating psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Fortunately, financial assistance is available. Here are a few ways that may help lower the cost of treatment.（Information sources: https://tinyurl.com/npr2n674 ）
Copay Cards
Copay cards (also called manufacturer copay cards or copay coupons) can be used to lower the amount you pay for prescription drugs. This means the manufacturer is helping to pay for costs not covered by your health insurance.
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about copay cards for the medications you take. You can also find copay cards on the drug manufacturer’s website.
Copay cards can only be used with commercial or private insurance. Under the Anti-Kickback Statute, you cannot use a copay card if you have health insurance provided by the federal government (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or Indian Health Service).
Patient Assistance Programs
Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) provide financial assistance to patients who do not have health insurance and to patients who cannot afford treatment even with health insurance. PAPs are sponsored by drug manufacturers and nonprofit organizations. Eligibility for a PAP may depend on your household income and the type of insurance you have.
You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about PAPs for the medications you take. You can also look for PAPs on the drug manufacturer's website.
Clinical Trials
There are several potential benefits to participating in a clinical trial, including access to free and innovative treatments, free medical care, improved psoriasis symptoms, and monetary compensation. Whatever your reason for participating in a clinical trial, your participation in research can help find safer, more effective treatment options for all people with psoriasis.
Shop Around
The cost of treatment can vary depending on the pharmacy you visit. You can use apps and websites like GoodRx, Pharmacy Checker, and WeRx to help you find the pharmacy in your area that offers treatment at the lowest price.
Affordable Care
Visiting a doctor can be expensive, whether you have health insurance or not. Federally Qualified Health Centers (also called health centers) allow you to pay on a sliding scale (you pay what you can afford). Find a health center in your area.
Health Services
Nonprofit organizations and university hospitals may also offer lower-priced health services. Call 211 to find out what health services are available in your area.
National Psoriasis Foundation
You can find out what financial assistance is available by visiting the National Psoriasis Foundation's website: Financial Assistance Resource Center.（Information source: https://tinyurl.com/af3myrfr）
On this page you will find links to:
▸Drug companies and organizations that can help you pay for medications prescribed by your dermatologist.
▸The Foundation may help with high out-of-pocket costs.
▸Information to help you understand what Medicare covers.
Financial assistance makes it possible for many people to treat psoriasis. If you find that the cost of your treatment is still causing a financial hardship, be sure to tell your dermatologist. Another medication may be an option.
