Pfizer extends free aid for unemployed using its drugs
Filed under: Saving Money, Health, Fantastic Freebies, Economizer
In December, I wrote about the drug maker Pfizer offering free prescription drugs to people who lost their jobs and health coverage in 2009. After that, I got an e-mail from a James Walker at APCO Worldwide, Pfizer's public-relations firm, that the company is extending the measure through 2010. Applications for Pfizer's Maintain drug-coverage program are being accepted through Dec. 31. If you get into the program, you'll get your medications for free up to one year or until you get health coverage again, whichever comes first. To qualify, you must have been taking the Pfizer drug for at least three months.
It's worth checking out -- Pfizer sells some of the most widely used drugs in the U.S., like Lipitor for cholesterol, Celebrex for arthritis, and Viagra (yes, that is on the list of drugs Pfizer will give out for free.) People who need Pfizer's specialty and oncology medicines can find out if they qualify for help through the company's other patient-assistance programs by calling 1-866-706-2400. You can also call that phone number for details, or download an application.
MoreOli Scarff, Getty Images
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
3-11-2010 @ 9:08AM
vrsecond said...
Thank you for the reminder about Pfizer's program, it was a lifesaver for me last year. I applied, and have been getting my much needed Lipitor, which being on unemployment I could not have afforded $120-160 a month (I'd rather eat).
There are a lot of good tips on this site, I love it.
Also, those of you in Florida, contact the Office of Public Counsel, you may get a monthly credit on your phone bill if you meet the criteria. www.floridaopc.gov
Also Safelink is an awesome program as well. You may be able to get a free cell phone, here is the info
www.safelinkwireless.com
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3-12-2010 @ 8:58AM
loriy56 said...
Merk pharmaceuticals offers the same program. I've been unemployed for two years and Merk has been providing my medications for free.
Once you're on the program it's like having a prescription at the drugstore. You get a certain amount of refills (mine last six months) so that you don't have to pay for a doctors visit each time you need to refill.
Also, a reminder to parents with kids on Ritalin. You can get that filled at Walmart for $4.00. They don't advertise it, but if you ask them they'll give you that price.
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3-12-2010 @ 9:48AM
Di said...
I guess they are trying desperately to meet with Obama's approval before the crunch comes....Insurance companies have already been demonized, doctors are said to take off people's legs just to make money.....the drug companies are pathetically trying to win over the marxist's sympathy....and by the way, alot of people aren't even looking for jobs anymore...why should they when they get everything for free???
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3-12-2010 @ 11:54AM
Lee said...
Well, I just take my "free" money and pay for my health insurance and my medication, my credit card (zero balance when I was laid off-used to pay for urgent care services applied toward my $5k deductible on the state sponsored health plan since private insurance denies me coverage), gas and car repairs to drive to interviews and other responsibilities. My free money goes back into the economy, Di. Wait, you must be one of those understanding, greatful people who did not lose their job. I have worked since I have been sixteen years old and some tell me I have earned my "free" money. I was with my last position fourteen years. I am sorry you do not understand, Di. I hope you and all of you with the same opinion do not have to experience losing your job.
3-12-2010 @ 1:23PM
Kim said...
How about those of us who are employed (with health insurance) who cannot afford the medical copays/deductibles? Regretfully, I often do not take my kids to the doctor when they are sick because I cannot afford the medical bills.
I'm better off not working and mooching off the system (until it collapses) just like all of the other schlubs...
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