Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt has pledged $1 million in individual assistance for Louisiana victims of Hurricane Gustav, through a new Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) administrated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
According to HHS officials, EPAP is an efficient way for pharmacies to process claims for prescription medications and certain durable medical equipment (DME) items for residents who don't have health insurance coverage and live in the Louisiana disaster area declared by President Bush.
"This program is an example of public and private entities working together to improve our nation's ability to respond in emergencies," Leavitt said.
With a written prescription, eligible individuals may receive assistance for essential pharmaceutical and durable medical equipment lost as a direct result of Gustav. The supply can be used to treat an acute condition or replace maintenance prescription drugs or medical equipment.
"Over the past year, CMS has worked with pharmacy industry groups and leading technology companies to incorporate their planning and unique capabilities into the program's procedures and processes," said Leavitt. "The result is a program that is easy to use and provides the extra support that some people need after a disaster."
EPAP covers one-time, 30-day supplies of medications and certain durable medical equipment, such as canes, walkers, wheelchairs and diabetic supplies. Individuals with private insurance, such as employer-sponsored coverage or an individual health insurance policy, are not eligible for payment under the EPAP. Nor are claims for individuals with public insurance, such as Medicare or Medicaid.
To assist in the determination of eligibility, pharmacies must check at the point of sale for other forms of health insurance coverage. Only claims with a date of service between Sept. 2-11, 2008 are eligible for processing under the EPAP-Gustav Activation.
Pharmacies must also dispense the generic form of medication unless otherwise indicated by the licensed healthcare practitioner.