Review of student pharmacist-led patient assistance program services at a student-run free medical clinic

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Background</h3> High medication costs in the United States can result in medication access challenges for underserved patients. These challenges may result in suboptimal outcomes (e.g., nonadherence and lower life expectancy). Patient assistance programs (PAPs) supply free or low-cost medications to underserved, low-income individuals who meet program eligibility criteria. <h3>Objectives</h3> This research seeks to quantify the annual patient medication savings attained through a student pharmacist–led PAP service within a free clinic and also illustrate this unique methodology for other clinics to replicate. <h3>Methods</h3> A team of pharmacists and student pharmacists initiated a student pharmacist–led PAP service at the CommunityCare Clinic (CCC), one of the largest student-run free clinics in the United States, to enable consistent and affordable access to medications. This implementation was executed through interdisciplinary medical team collaboration to drive optimal patient care. Estimated annual medication savings used the specific national dispensing code of the product, the wholesale acquisition cost, the maximum quantity received annually based on prescription directions, and pricing algorithms. <h3>Results</h3> Between July 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, the CCC successfully fulfilled 31 PAP applications, accounting for $201,018.92 in estimated annual patient medication savings. These applications were related to endocrine, pulmonary, and thrombotic prophylaxis and neuropathic pain conditions. The PAP service consisted of 3 student pharmacists and 1 pharmacist knowledgeable of available programs. The PAP team provides an overview to all volunteers weekly to identify patients during the patient visits in addition to PAP team chart reviews. Once the PAP intervention is determined to be eligible and approved by health care providers, the team initiates the application process and all required follow-up with additional patient resources. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The CCC's experience using student pharmacist–led PAP service demonstrates a pharmacy team's ability to advocate for underserved patients by enabling affordable and optimal health management while offering practical strategies for other clinics to adopt similar services.