Patient access programs at Asian Hospital and Medical Center: Making cancer treatment more affordable
Cancer treatment can be a long and challenging journey. Aside from coping with the physical and emotional effects of cancer, many patients and their families also worry about the cost of treatment. The good news is that Patient Access Programs can help eligible patients continue their treatment by making cancer medicines more affordable.
Patient Access Programs are designed to help eligible patients reduce the cost of their prescribed cancer medicines through discounts or free medicines funded by pharmaceutical companies. Depending on the specific program, patients may receive discounts on their treatment or qualify for free doses after meeting certain eligibility requirements. These programs help lessen the financial burden of cancer care and allow patients to stay on track with the treatment plan recommended by their physician.
"Cancer treatment should never be interrupted because of financial concerns. Patient Access Programs play an important role in helping eligible patients continue their prescribed treatment by connecting them with available support that can make life-saving medicines more affordable," said Dr. Mary Ondinee Manalo-Igot, Oncologist at the Asian Cancer Institute, Asian Hospital and Medical Center.
Many people are unaware that financial assistance may be available to help cover the cost of cancer treatment. By asking their healthcare team about Patient Access Programs, eligible patients can learn about the available options and determine whether they qualify. Each program has its own eligibility requirements, which typically include a valid prescription and other medical and program-specific criteria.
"Early conversations about financial support are just as important as discussing treatment options. Patients should feel comfortable asking their healthcare team about Patient Access Programs, as these may help them stay on track with the treatment recommended by their physician," Dr. Manalo-Igot added.
At Asian Hospital and Medical Center, patients may inquire about available Patient Access Programs through their attending physician or by visiting Chrys Specialty Pharmacy. As a patient access hub, Chrys Specialty Pharmacy provides information on available programs, explains eligibility requirements, assists with enrollment, and works closely with the patient's healthcare team to make the process as smooth and convenient as possible.
In addition to Patient Access Programs, eligible patients may also explore government financial assistance. With the guidance of the Medical Social Worker at the Outpatient Health Services, patients can apply for available government assistance programs. Chrys Specialty Pharmacy can also prepare the treatment quotation required for the application.
To further help patients manage the cost of treatment, Asian Hospital and Medical Center also partners with BDO, BPI, UnionBank, and HSBC to offer qualified cardholders flexible installment payment options, including up to three months at 0% interest. Together with Patient Access Programs and government financial assistance, these initiatives help ensure that financial concerns do not prevent eligible patients from receiving the treatment they need.
"Our goal is to ensure that eligible patients have access to the treatment they need without unnecessary delays due to financial challenges. Through Patient Access Programs and the support of our multidisciplinary team, we help patients navigate available assistance so they can focus on their treatment and recovery with confidence," Dr. Manalo-Igot emphasized.
For inquiries about Patient Access Programs, you may call the Asian Hospital and Medical Center hotline at (02) 8771-9000 local 5913 or email [email protected]. You may also follow the hospital's official social media pages at @AsianHospitalPH for updates, health information, and patient services.