The current global crisis has caused immense financial strain on individuals and families across the world. Among those hit hardest are individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart disease.

Heart patients require consistent medication in order to maintain their health and prevent further complications. However, the cost of medication, combined with financial strain brought on by the pandemic, has left many heart patients struggling to afford the drugs they need.

The Rising Cost of Heart Medications

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the world and requires ongoing medical treatment.

Many heart patients rely on a combination of medications to manage their condition, including blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medication to manage high blood pressure.

Over the past few years, the cost of these medications has risen dramatically.

According to a report by the American Heart Association, the average cost of a month’s supply of a brand-name cholesterol-lowering drug increased from $124 in 2012 to $309 in 2017. The cost of blood thinners has also increased, with some patients now paying upwards of $400 per month for their medication.

The Impact of the Pandemic

The current pandemic has only added to the financial burden faced by heart patients. Many individuals have lost their jobs or experienced a reduction in income due to the economic downturn caused by the crisis.

This has made it difficult for patients to afford their medication, which is crucial for their wellbeing.

Furthermore, many insurance plans have changed as a result of the pandemic. Some patients have experienced a reduction in coverage, while others have lost their insurance entirely.

This has made it even more difficult for patients to access the medication they need to manage their condition.

Alternative Options for Heart Patients

Given the high cost of heart medications, many patients are searching for alternative options to help them afford their drugs. One such option is to switch to generic medication, which is often significantly cheaper than the brand-name version.

While the active ingredients in generic drugs are identical to their brand-name counterparts, they are often sold at a much lower price due to lower marketing and development costs.

Another option available to heart patients is to explore assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.

Many drug manufacturers offer programs to help patients afford their medication, such as patient assistance programs or co-pay assistance programs. These programs help eligible patients by reducing the out-of-pocket cost of their medication.

Finally, patients can also explore options for purchasing medication from international sources.

While this option carries some risks and may not be legal in all situations, purchasing medication from outside the United States is often significantly cheaper than buying it domestically.

The Importance of Access to Medication

Despite the high cost of medication, it is important for heart patients to have access to the drugs they need.

Failure to take medication as prescribed can lead to serious health complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening events. Patients should work with their doctor and pharmacist to find a medication that is both effective and affordable.

In Conclusion

The rising cost of heart medication, combined with the financial strain of the current pandemic, has left many heart patients struggling to afford the drugs they need.

However, alternative options such as generic medication, assistance programs, and international sources can help alleviate some of the financial burden. It is imperative that heart patients have access to the medication they need to manage their condition and prevent further complications.