Affording Medications

If you, or someone you love, suffer from a severe physical disability or mental health condition that prevents you from working, you may want to apply for Social Security disability benefits.

The Social Security Administration's evaluation process is very complex and difficult – they deny three-fourths of applicants. To increase your chances of being approved, you must visit your doctor regularly and follow the prescribed treatment plan. Bills add up quickly, and if you don't have medical insurance, it can be nearly impossible to pay for prescriptions and medical procedures you really need.

At Edgar Snyder & Associates, we know how important it is for you to maintain your health and get the SSD benefits you deserve. There are a few options that can make affording medication and treatments easier.

Check into Generic Drugs

Many prescription medications are available in brand and generic forms. Generic drugs have the same active ingredient(s) and are usually just as effective. It's a simple way to cut down your medical expenses.

Check with your doctor if a generic drug is right for you, and never switch or discontinue taking a medication without consulting your physician first.

Choose Mail-Order Prescriptions

If you are taking prescription medications long-term, it can become very costly. Many mail-order prescription companies charge less money. For example, you may get three refills for the price of two. Plus, the process to order your refills is usually simple.

Many medical insurance carriers offer mail-order prescription options. Ask your insurance provider if it has a mail-order prescription service. Larger chain pharmacies (such as Giant Eagle, Rite Aid, and Walgreen's) also have their own plans for patients who don't have insurance. However, these only apply to certain generic medications, and the cost can be increased depending on the dose of the medication. A list of the covered medications is available through each pharmacy's website or at the pharmacy counter.

Ask for Samples at the Doctor's Office

When you're in for your doctor's appointments, check with your physician to see if samples of your prescriptions are available. While this may not be a long-term solution, it may help you get by until you have more financial assistance with your medications.

Brand Only? Contact the Drug's Manufacturer

If a generic form of a medication isn't available, or your doctor wants you to take the brand prescription, you may be able to lower the cost of the drug by contacting the manufacturer.

When you call, ask to speak to someone about affording your medication. Some pharmaceutical companies may be open to reduced payment options.

Not sure which company manufactures your medications? Ask your doctor or look online.

Consider Assistance Programs

There are many different organizations – federal and private – that offer financial assistance for people who are disabled and can't pay their medical bills. One of these is Medicare & Medicaid. Do some research online to learn the options available to you.

Need Social Security Disability Benefits? Trust Edgar Snyder & Associates

If you're suffering from a physical disability or mental health condition that prevents you from working, you may know all about financial struggles. Every day may cause you stress and frustration, when you only should have to worry about your health.

Call 412-850-4790 for a free legal consultation. We offer our legal consultation with no strings attached. You're not obligated to use our services.

If you haven't submitted a claim for SSD benefits but think you're eligible, we can help you apply. If the government denied your application, we can appeal your claim and guide you through the appeals process – answering your questions about SSD along the way. But you must act fast. If your claim was denied, you have only 60 days to appeal. Contact us now.

For more information on Social Security disability benefits, check out our Social Security disability articles and resources.

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