Merck To Offer Free Medicines For Low-income Patients

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

From:Philadelphia Inquirer

Feb. 13, 2004

In anticipation of an array of new Medicare-approved drug-discount cards in the spring, Merck & Co. Inc. has said that it will provide its medicines for free to low-income Medicare beneficiaries who have spent the $600 limit on their cards.http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/business/7941923.htm

[fiestynurse]

My experience with these low-income or indigent programs sponsored by the drug companies has not been good. The paperwork is long and complicated and most do not fall below the income levels (a single person must earn less than $12,123 a year, and a couple less than $16,362)

A better solution would be for Merck to lower it's drug prices!

[nekhismom]

A better solution would be for Merck to lower it's drug prices!

ITA!!! Then, everyone benefits, and seniors won't HAVE to exhaust their $600 limit on Merck alone.

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

The $600 limit is across the board on any prescription itme, just not one drug company. Think of the $600.00 as a deductible fee before free care starts.