High copays

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ZakMeister

RPh
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What are some of the crazy reasons patient has high copays besides a drug being in higher tiers, or not in network pharmacy or high deductible??

Patient with AARP part D plan came today with a recently renewed plan and she has an amazing $240 copay on her lantus. She claims she doesnt have deductible plan so i was confused too. I referred her to the insurance agents but i wished i knew firsthand what was up. Any thoughts?
 
Probably needs to get Levemir or Basaglar, because Lantus is not the preferred brand for her plan.
 
Sounds like medicare coverage gap

Refer them to walmart for cheapest price on insulin.
Novolin N is very inexpensive at Walmart; however, I think Lantus would be about the same price. It may be reasonable for the patient to transition to Novolin N temporarily, but I would encourage the patient to reach out to their provider to assist with the transition.

She may qualify for patient assistance through Sanofi if she is at or below 250% FPL.
http://www.needymeds.org/brand-drug/name/Lantus

FPL:
Poverty Guidelines
If she lives in a 2 person household, she would likely qualify if income is < $40,000 per year.
 
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