Paying for Medications
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There are several programs available in San Luis Obispo County to assist residents with paying for prescription medications.
Alliance for Pharmaceutical Access (APA)
The Alliance for Pharmaceutical Access (APA) is a local non-profit providing help in English and Spanish for people who are unable to afford their medications or prescription co-pays. The APA provides access to brand-name medications for chronic conditions at no cost by registering patients for Patient Assistance Programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. The process can take time, so patients may need another way to access their medications (samples, a filled prescription, etc.) while waiting. Patients can also access the Patient Assistance Programs on their own at: www.rxassist.org/patients.
Eligibility depends on income and varies by manufacturer. To determine eligibility, the patient can call APA at (805) 614-2040 or visit the APA website for information and the nearest office. Patients will need to provide information regarding their income, household size, and the medications needed. Proof of income, a tax return, and a medication prescription less than 30 days old will be required to complete the application. Residents without legal immigration status may still be eligible, depending on the manufacturer requirements. Please visit the APA FAQ page prior to making an appointment. Prenatal Vitamins
Pregnancy and Parenting Support of SLO County provides free prenatal vitamins and many other resources for pregnant and new parents, through their child's second year of life.
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Need Help?
Contact an advocate or staff member at a Family Resource Center for support with non-medical needs such as food, clothing, shelter, parent education and navigating social services. A full listing of Family Resource Centers in San Luis Obispo County can be found here: https://sloparents.org/slo-frc-directory/
Concerned about a child's development?SLO County Help Me Grow (SLO HMG) provides support with developmental screenings, identifying resources, and child development information for the families you serve. Services are free for any child ages birth through 5 years old who is a SLO County resident. Call 805-440-1878 or visit https://slohelpmegrow.org/
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Community Health Centers of the Central Coast (CHC)
Patients of CHC who do not have health insurance and do not qualify for Medi-Cal can access CHC’s sliding scale prescription program. The amount of the copay depends on the medication. CHC’s pharmacy is in SLO, but they will deliver medications to any CHC site. Note that CHC also has a sliding scale for medical appointments. Legal residency is not required for the sliding scale programs.
If CHC does not carry the medication, staff can check prices at other pharmacies in the area and they have discount cards that can be used at many pharmacies to lower the cost of medications. CHC staff can also register patients for pharmaceutical company Patient Assistance Programs. Patients should ask about samples while waiting for assistance programs and for short-term medications.
If CHC does not carry the medication, staff can check prices at other pharmacies in the area and they have discount cards that can be used at many pharmacies to lower the cost of medications. CHC staff can also register patients for pharmaceutical company Patient Assistance Programs. Patients should ask about samples while waiting for assistance programs and for short-term medications.
Discount Cards
Discount cards are available at CHC and other locations throughout the county, including pharmacies and government offices. Each brand of discount card provides different discounts depending on the pharmacy and the medication, so asking around is essential. Costco and Walmart frequently have the lowest prices; anyone can use the Costco pharmacy. Discount cards cannot be used at the same time as other health insurance, but can be used instead if they offer a better price.
Health Insurance
Click here for Health Insurance information and resources.