Last Updated on January 12, 2026
Guest post – Rachel Thorpe, Executive Director – Otsuka Patient Assistance Foundation, Inc.
Patients face many hurdles when striving for good health, from ensuring they schedule regular checkups to taking any prescriptions as directed. For people who are uninsured or whose insurer doesn’t cover certain medications, affording those prescribed medicines can be challenging.
Fortunately, patient assistance programs (PAPs) exist to help bridge these gaps. Often run by a pharmaceutical manufacturer, PAPs provide individuals with limited or no prescription drug coverage who also fall below certain income thresholds with access to the medicines they need.
All too often, however, patient applications for PAP programs are denied simply because the applicant failed to provide the right information—or submit a fully completed application. Simple mistakes, such as failing to provide proof of income, an incomplete application form, or the lack of an up-to-date prescription from their physician, can delay or prevent patients from accessing life-saving medications.
As the head of an independent manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance foundation that has served more than one hundred thousand patients since its founding in 2017, I’m all too familiar with these common mistakes. Each PAP program has its own set of rules and application procedures, which can make the process confusing. But, for those who do their homework to gather the right information, the process can run smoothly.
Here are some tips to keep in mind to successfully apply for a PAP:
1. Do Your Research
Not all PAP programs are alike. Each program has its own income limits, insurance status requirements, and rules about which medicines are covered. Some PAPs only help uninsured people, while others also support those whose insurance won’t cover the cost of a particular medicine or whose out-of-pocket costs are unaffordable.
With this in mind, read through the eligibility requirements for the program in question before applying.
Some programs may be product-specific, focused on only one medicine, while others may be manufacturer-specific, covering a wide range of medications made by the manufacturer. Still others offer products based on the medical condition or disease. To identify which program may be right for you, use a search engine, like Needymeds, that identifies programs based on the medication needed.
In addition, some programs only allow digital enrollment, while others offer paper application options. If you don’t have Internet access, you may consider asking your physician to submit your digital application on your behalf.
2. Gather the necessary documents before applying
Though requirements differ from program to program, the following are some documents typically required:
- Proof of income (tax returns, recent pay stubs, Social Security award letters)
- Insurance cards or proof of insurance denial
- Valid and current prescription from your healthcare provider
- List of current medications, dosing, and attending physician’s details
- Proof of residency or citizenship
- Any supporting documents (letters from your insurer, prior authorization forms)
When collecting these materials, make sure any copies are clear, legible, and ready for submission as electronic documents.
A good practice is to create a checklist ahead of time and tick off each document you find before beginning the application process.
3. Work with your doctor
Most PAPs require your doctor or healthcare provider to submit documentation or sign off on your application. If possible, work closely with them or their office to complete and submit your application form. Some healthcare providers will even submit the application form on your behalf.
4. Complete the entire application
Fill out the complete application. Incomplete forms are one of the main reasons for delays and denials. Answer every question as directed, writing “N/A” (not applicable) where appropriate.
5. Proofread
A good practice is to double-check your application for errors and completeness before submitting.
6. Meet any deadlines
Programs sometimes have specific enrollment windows or may take time to review your documentation before approving your application. Apply as soon as you know you’ll need PAP support to prevent any gaps in your medication.
7. Confused? Ask for help!
If you find the process overwhelming, contact your doctor, their office, or your social worker and ask for help. Most healthcare professionals have experience navigating PAPs and can make sure your paperwork is complete and submitted correctly. You can also contact the PAP program directly for guidance and support—most programs are happy to help you with the application process.
In addition, many PAPs and national non-profit resources like NeedyMeds offer online guides and contact centers for support and guidance.
8. Track your application
Once you submit your application, be sure to track it through the approval process and follow up with the PAP administrator if needed. They are there to help you through the process and should be able to provide updates on when you can expect approval.
Throughout the process, be sure to keep copies of everything you submit, plus notes on whom you’ve talked to and when. This will help if questions arise, or forms get misplaced.
If your application is denied, don’t give up – many programs entertain appeals, especially for hardship cases.
While applying for a PAP can feel complicated, it is manageable with the right preparation. Hopefully, the above tips can help you successfully apply, ensuring you get the medicines you need despite your insurance status or income level. Throughout, remember that these programs are designed to help and that those who manage these programs, like me, are there to ensure you get the lifesaving medications you need.
