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Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs can do wonders. They also can produce horrors when not taken properly. Medication misuse, usually unintentional, is a major problem of older people living at home. They often have no one to interpret labels and instructions, or someone to remind them when to take their pills. Whenever a sudden change in behavior occurs in an older person, medications should always be suspect. The cost of medications are also often a burden on finances. Fortunately, there is some help available.

Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Elderly 401- 222-2880

This program, known as RIPAE, pays for 60% of the cost of certain prescription drugs for Rhode Island residents who are 65 and older, meet the income criteria and have no other prescription coverage. The covered drugs are the ones used to treat a specific list of medical conditions.

The medical conditions include asthma, chronic respiratory disease, cancer, circulatory insufficiency, diabetes (including insulin & syringes), glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Parkinson's disease, prescription vitamins, and mineral supplements for renal patients.  Drugs approved  for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease are also covered.    Effective July 1, 1999, medications for depression and urinary incontinence were added.

Single persons must have an annual income of less than $15,558. Married couples must have a combined income of less than $19,449. Income from all sources is counted. Medical expenses that exceed 3% of annual income may be deducted when determining eligibility.

Free Prescription Drugs

Some pharmaceutical companies have programs that give free medications to people who cannot afford them. Each company sets its own guidelines. Doctors are often required to contact the pharmaceutical company directly.

URI Medication Education Resource Center 1-800-215-9001

The Center helps consumers and doctors with obtaining drugs under the free drug program described above. Open Monday-Friday 8:AM to Noon

URI Medication Hotline 1-800 287-5571

The hotline provides information on reactions and interactions of medications. The hotline will also arrange a "Brown Bag" medication evaluation. Open Monday-Friday 8:AM to Noon.

AARP Pharmacy