Week 5 Updates
Saren S -
Hi everyone, welcome to week 5 of my research project!
As I continue my research into the financial burden of EpiPens, I’ve been investigating government assistance programs to see if they provide sufficient relief for families struggling with the high costs of epinephrine auto-injectors. Medicaid does cover EpiPens, but eligibility requirements vary by state, creating disparities in access. Additionally, many families fall into the “coverage gap”—earning too much to qualify for Medicaid but still unable to afford EpiPens at full price.
I’ve been spending more time at the allergy clinic where I work, talking to underprivileged patients who rely on government assistance for their medical needs. In talking to families, I’ve learned that even with Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), obtaining an EpiPen isn’t always straightforward. Some families struggle with bureaucratic hurdles, like prior authorizations or limited pharmacy availability. Others are forced to choose between paying for medication or other essential expenses.
Beyond Medicaid, some states offer prescription assistance programs that provide discounted EpiPens, but these programs are often underfunded and not widely advertised. Meanwhile, the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program allows certain healthcare facilities to purchase medications at lower prices, yet not all clinics participate, leaving some patients without access to these discounts.
Looking ahead, I plan to conduct interviews with healthcare professionals and policy experts to explore potential legislative solutions. Additionally, I am tracking current bills and advocacy efforts that aim to reduce the financial burden of epinephrine auto-injectors. By combining policy research with hands-on experience in the clinic, I hope to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how we can improve affordability and accessibility for those who need it most.
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