Pharmacy and Medical Financial Assistance Programs for Students

Students are often operating on a limited budget, and this can make it very difficult for them to get the medications that they need. Whether or not they have insurance through their parents, students may find that they cannot afford the required co-payments for their medications. Luckily, there are many financial assistance programs open for students attending college, some of which aren't available to the general public.

Coupon Programs for Pharmacy Costs

There are coupons available through some vendors that can drastically reduce a prescription copay. These coupon programs usually don't require any membership fee; it simply involves scanning a coupon at the pharmacy itself. Some pharmacies may be able to direct the student to low cost coupon programs in their area. Pharmacy coupons can usually be found and printed through the Internet.

School Health Centers and Insurance

Many students don't avail themselves of their school's health center -- and some may not realize that they have additional insurance through their university tuition. Students should inquire with their university's health center before moving forward with their prescriptions, as they may have other, lower cost options open to them. Some universities may even have discounts open at local pharmacies.

Low Income Pharmacy Programs

Some pharmacies offer financial assistance directly through their own programs. These programs are generally open to those who have a low annual income, and many students may qualify, if they are no longer a dependent of their parents. Low income pharmacy programs usually only accept prescriptions for generic medications, so they may not be a solution for students who require brand name medications. 

Other Alternatives

Students who cannot qualify for financial assistance programs with their pharmacy or health center can also consider switching their medications to a generic version, with a medical consultation. Many generics perform in the same way as brand name medications but can be much less expensive. 

Resources are usually available through a school's financial aid center even if the students cannot obtain aid for their medications directly through the school itself. There are also low cost counseling options available in most states. Students looking for a financial assistance pharmacy Michigan can inquire with these resources.