Home
/
NowPatient Blog
/
What Is a Patient Assistance Program?

What Is a Patient Assistance Program?

Jamie Winn NowPatientGreen tick
Medically reviewed by Jamie Winn, Pharm.D
Written by

Created
March 28, 2025 (Current Version)

Are you struggling to afford your prescription medications? You’re not alone. The cost of medications can really add up and, unfortunately, might prevent people from accessing the care they need. But did you know there are programs available that can help offset the cost of prescribed medication? Patient Assistance Programs provide a viable solution for those in need – but what exactly are they and how do you access one? Read on to learn more about what these programs offer, who is eligible for them, and the benefits that make them so invaluable.

Overview of Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)

See How NowPatient Helps with All Your Health and Medication Needs

  • Get Treated Privately Service

    Get Treated Privately

    • Tracked Delivery
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • Weight Loss Programs

    • Tracked Delivery
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • NHS Online Pharmacy

    • Tracked Delivery
    Learn More
  • Rx Advantage Card

    • Prescription Required
    • Prescription Savings
    Learn More
  • Canadian Prescription Savings

    • Prescription Required
    • Prescription Savings
    Learn More
  • NHS Pharmacy First

    • Tracked Delivery
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • Patient Assistance Programs

    • Prescription Required
    • Prescription Savings
    Learn More
  • NHS New Medicine Service

    • Medication Coaching
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • Drug Coupons

    • Prescription Required
    • Prescription Savings
    Learn More
  • AI Deprescribing Advisor logo

    AI Deprescribing Advisor

    • AI Enhanced
    • Medication Coaching
    Learn More
  • Book GP Appointment

    • Appointment Booking
    Learn More
  • Medication Reminders

    • Medication Coaching
    Learn More
  • GP Records Folder

    • Check your NHS records
    Learn More
  • Genetic test on a pink background

    Genetic Medicines Test

    • AI Enhanced
    • Tracked Delivery
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • Health test on a purple background

    Home Health Testing

    • Tracked Delivery
    • Video Consultation
    Learn More
  • Symptoms Checker

    • AI Enhanced
    Learn More
  • Type 2 Diabetes Risk

    • AI Enhanced
    Learn More
  • Patient Activation Measure

    • AI Enhanced
    • Medication Coaching
    • Performance Tracking
    Learn More
  • Air Quality Monitor

    • AI Enhanced
    Learn More
  • Drug Information

    • Health Education
    Learn More
  • Pollen Meter

    • AI Enhanced
    Learn More
  • Conditions A-Z

    • Health Education
    Learn More
  • BMI Risk

    • AI Enhanced
    Learn More

Patients who struggle to afford healthcare need not suffer alone. With the help of Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs), individuals can access the care and medications they need to stay healthy. These programs provide financial assistance to those who cannot afford their healthcare costs, such as insurance premiums and deductibles, copays, prescription medications, and testing. While each program is unique and has its own set of eligibility requirements, they all share the same goal: to make healthcare more accessible to those in need. PAPs can be a lifeline for those who would otherwise go without the care they need to manage their conditions. If you or a loved one is struggling to afford healthcare, consider looking into PAPs to see if they may be able to provide help.

What type of help do PAPs provide to eligible patients

Patient Assistance Programs, or PAPs, are a lifeline for many individuals who struggle to afford their necessary medication. These programs, typically offered by pharmaceutical companies, provide financial assistance to eligible patients to help with the costs of their prescriptions. Depending on the program and the medication, PAPs may cover all or a portion of the out-of-pocket expenses for the patient. In addition to providing financial assistance, some PAPs also offer other services, such as educational resources and guidance on navigating the healthcare system. For those who are eligible, PAPs can make a significant difference in their ability to access the medication they need to manage their health conditions.

Who is eligible to receive PAP assistance

PAP assistance, or Patient Assistance Programs, are a vital resource for patients who are struggling to afford their medications. But who exactly is eligible to receive this assistance? Typically, those who receive PAP assistance are individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, have a low income, and are unable to pay the full cost of their medications. Each PAP program sets its own specific eligibility requirements, but they generally aim to help those in financial need obtain the medications they need to manage their health conditions. Regardless of the specific criteria, PAP assistance can be a lifeline for those who would otherwise be unable to afford the medications they need to stay healthy.

How do you apply for a PAP

Applying for a PAP can be a daunting task for many individuals. However, with the right information, it can be a smooth and straightforward process. To apply for a PAP, you will need to first fill out an application form, which can usually be found online or at a local government office. You will also need to provide important documentation, such as proof of income and a letter from your doctor outlining your medical condition. It’s important to pay close attention to the deadlines for submitting your application, as missing these can lead to delays or even a denial of your request. While the application process may seem overwhelming, remember that the PAP exists to help individuals with medical and financial needs, and the effort put into applying can potentially lead to valuable support and resources.

Speak to your provider or seek assistance from specialist organizations

As we can see, Patient Assistance Programs are an invaluable resource for many in the medical field. They provide necessary financial assistance for those struggling with medical costs, allowing them to better manage their care and improve their quality of life. However, it is important to remember that PAPs are only available to certain individuals who meet certain conditions. Even so, PAPs still offer great benefits and should not be overlooked when evaluating financial options related to medical treatments and medications. In any case, if you or someone you know may qualify for a PAP, researching or working with a financial consultant could help you determine whether a Patient Assistance Program is right for your situation. If you decide that applying directly with the manufacturer is complicated then you can use resources like Prescription Bliss, who charge a small monthly fee to assist you in completing the application forms and managing your subsequent refills. Hopefully this article has provided you with some insight into PAPs and empowered you to make an informed decision on the best option for you or your loved one!

Sources

Medical Disclaimer

NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.

Now Patient Data Security

Trusted and Certified to Keep Your Data Safe.

Learn moreNow Patient Data Security
Now Patient Data Security

Can I Trust NowPatient

Certified to International Healthcare, Medical Device and Data Security Standards

  • Class 1 Medical Device

Medicines Experts

Meet Our Medical Team

We are a broad skilled and passionate group of clinicians with experience of operating in health systems in the United Kingdom & United States. Providing excellent care and advice is at the heart of everything we do. You can read more about our medical team by visiting the medical team page or learn more about how we curate content by visiting our editorial process

WHY WE BUILT NOWPATIENT

We Are Committed to Helping Everyone, Everywhere Live Healthier Lives

The NowPatient virtual care platform provides you with access to trusted health information, affordable treatments, management of chronic health conditions and continuous monitoring for health risks. NowPatient can be accessed by downloading the App or using your web browser.

Download our app today

NowPatient app on a mobile device

Your Questions Answered

For Your Peace of Mind, We Can Answer Your Questions Quickly

What does NowPatient do?

NowPatient is a digital health-technology platform functioning as both an online pharmacy and telehealth service. Packaged as a Class I software medical device, it’s accessible via web browser or mobile app (iOS and Android), and offers users worldwide on-demand access to virtual consultations, prescription services, and AI-powered health tools.

What It Does

    • NHS Online Pharmacy: Order NHS-approved prescriptions (UK)
    • Drug Savings: Access major US drug-savings programs (coupons, savings cards, manufacturer assistance, Canadian drug savings).
    • Virtual Consultations: Get treated for a wide range of medical conditions by expert clinicians using a secure telehealth link.
    • Medication Management: Set up refill & dose reminders, view private treatment plans, and track chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
  • Health-Monitoring Tools: Use AI-driven assessments for genetic risk tests, home test kits and blood-pressure monitoring.
  • Wellness Insights: Access real-time pollen counts, air-quality data, BMI and type 2 diabetes risk scores, plus comprehensive health-condition information.

Get started today and benefit from Medication RemindersGet Treated PrivatelyNHS Online PharmacyGP Appointment BookingRx Savings CardDrug CouponsUS Drug Savings ProgramsHealth Conditions InformationGenetic TestingHome Test KitsBMI RisksType 2 Diabetes RisksPollen MeterAir Quality Monitor, and lots more!

Our service is operated by experienced medical professionals in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Where is NowPatient located?

NowPatient has offices in the United Kingdom and United States.

In the UK, we are located at:

NowPatient
28 Chipstead Valley Road
Coulsdon
Surrey
CR52RA

In the US, we are located at:

NowPatient
8911 North Capital of Texas Highway
Suite 4200 #1263
78759
Austin, TX

How can I contact NowPatient?

To contact NowPatient, please use the contact form available on the Contact Us page.

Alternatively, if you need to speak to us, you can reach us on the following numbers:

UK telephone number – 020 388 51 500
US telephone number – 1-866-967-1977

Who owns NowPatient?

NowPatient is owned and operated by Infohealth Ltd, a licensed online pharmacy with services spanning the UK, US and Rest of the World. Infohealth Ltd is registered in England and Wales under company number 04004930 and our registered office is at Lynwood House, 373 – 375 Station Road, Harrow, England, HA1 2AW.

Our website is www.nowpatient.com. Our App is called “NowPatient” and can be downloaded from the App Store (for Apple devices) or Google Play (for Android devices).

Can you tell me more about your NHS online pharmacy?

NowPatient’s Pharmaceutical services in the UK are provided by Infohealth Limited trading as ‘Infohealth Pharmacy’.

Our dispensing pharmacy is regulated and authorized for internet sales by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), registration number 1036487. You can view our license credentials on the General Pharmaceutical Council website. Our superintendent pharmacist who is responsible for the safe and effective oversight of medicines supplies is Mr Amish Patel (Registration Number 2042705).

Medicines are not ordinary items of commerce. All medicines or healthcare product sales are made under the supervision of a registered pharmacist who is licensed by the GPhC. At all times, we endeavour to provide a professional and transparent service whose primary goal is to ensure that the best interests of the patient are served.

How do I make a complaint?

From time to time, we accept that our service levels may not be up to your expectations. NowPatient welcomes concerns, compliments and complaints as valuable feedback that will help us learn from your experiences and make improvements. Feedback can be provided via our clear and transparent Complaints Procedures.

Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s prescribing services for treatments offered?

Our prescribing services are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). We provide the following regulated activity:

• treatment of disease, disorder, or injury
• transport services, triage, and medical advice are provided remotely
• caring for adults over 65 years old
• caring for adults under 65 years old

NowPatient prescribing services are run by Infohealth Limited. The Clinical Safety Officer and nominated individual is Mr Navin Khosla. Dr Ihtesham Sabri is the Medical Director for NowPatient and is responsible for NowPatient’s prescribing formulary and treatment guidelines, which are used by clinicians for safe and effective prescribing.

Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s US services?

Our head of US services is Dr. Jamie Winn.

You can lower the cost of your prescription medications using our various savings programs which include drug coupons, savings card and manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs.

What are the steps to booking a live video consultation?

Follow the steps below to book a consultation:

How to Book a Consultation With NowPatient
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 1
    1
    Book Consultation
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 2
    2
    Choose Consultation Date
    Next, you’ll be taken to the ‘Consultation Date’ screen, where you can select your preferred consultation date. You can also add any notes that might assist the clinician during your session. Click ‘Continue’ to proceed.
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 3
    3
    Choose Consultation Time
    You will now see the ‘Consultation Time’ screen. Select your preferred time for the consultation and then click ‘Continue’.
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 4
    4
    Choose Clinician
    On the ‘Choose Clinician’ screen, you’ll be able to view available clinicians and select the one you prefer. You can filter the list by gender and spoken languages. Once you’ve made your selection, click ‘Continue’.
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 5
    5
    Booking Confirmation
    You will now arrive at the ‘Booking Confirmation’ screen, where you can review a summary of your booking. This screen also includes an advisory titled ‘Pre-consultation Requirements’, which offers helpful tips on how to prepare for your live video consultation. Click ‘Continue’ to proceed.
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 6
    6
    Safety Information & Reminders
    You’ll be asked to provide safety information, including: - The address where you will be during the consultation - Emergency contact details You can also opt to receive an SMS reminder 30 minutes before your scheduled video consultation.
  • Book gp consultation slideshow 7
    7
    Final Confirmation
    Click ‘Confirm Booking’ to complete the process. A pop-up will appear to confirm your booking, and you will be redirected to your account homepage. You’ll also receive confirmation via In-App and Push notifications.

If I place an order, how do I check out?

Follow the steps below to checkout:

How to Checkout on NowPatient
  • Go to Cart using Account Navigation - order
    1
    Go to Cart using Account Navigation
  • If there is an NHS service item in the Cart - An NHS Exemption Declaration will Pop Up - order
    2
    If there is an NHS service item in the Cart - An NHS Exemption Declaration will Pop Up
  • Complete the NHS Exemption Declaration for each NHS service item - order
    3
    Complete the NHS Exemption Declaration for each NHS service item
  • Select ‘Checkout’ - order
    4
    Select ‘Checkout’
  • Select Delivery Address - order
    5
    Select Delivery Address
  • Select Delivery Method - order
    6
    Select Delivery Method
  • Confirm Billing Address - order
    7
    Confirm Billing Address
  • Review Order - order
    8
    Review Order
  • 9
    Submit Payment
  • Order Completed - order
    10
    Order Completed
  • Return to Account Homepage - order
    11
    Return to Account Homepage

Is NowPatient legit and can I trust information from NowPatient?

Yes. NowPatient provides trustworthy and accessible clinical, health education and prescription services. We are also trusted by the NHS to deliver clinical and NHS repeat prescription dispensing across the whole of England. In the United States, we work with over 65,000 pharmacies to deliver considerable costs savings for our users.

NowPatient is operated by experienced licensed medical professionals in the United Kingdom and United States. Our Medical Team can be found here.

Our service is trusted by thousands of patients worldwide. You can read their reviews on our Trustpilot:

NowPatient Trustpilot

Does NowPatient have insurance in place for the services it provides?

Yes. NowPatient is fully insured to provide pharmacy & prescribing services. Insurance not only provides peace of mind but also provides an effective safety net for both you and our clinicians.

Why is it important to choose an online pharmacy and telehealth service that is insured?

Insurance is more than just a financial safeguard, it is a signal of legitimacy and accountability.

We insure our services, so that it:

  • Shows you that we are compliant with all laws and industry standards in the markets that we operate.
  • Shows you that we are committed to standards of professionalism.
  • Reinforces your confidence that you are dealing with a reputable provider.

Who insures your services and which services are insured?

We are insured by the National Pharmacy Association in the UK.

The scope of the services covered include:

  • dispensing of prescriptions
  • telehealth prescribing services.

In addition, all of the clinicians that operate on our platform have their personal indemnity insurance & scope of clinical practice validated and checked before they are able to provide services.

What are NowPatient’s opening hours?

Our office hours are:

UK – Monday-Friday 9am-6pm GMT
US – Monday-Friday 8am-5pm EST

Please note that we are closed at weekends.

In the event of a medical life-threatening emergency please call:

UK – 999
US – 911

In the event of a medical emergency which is not life-threatening please call:

UK – 111