When Medication Costs Become Unmanageable on a Fixed Income

After undergoing triple bypass heart surgery and receiving multiple stents—seven so far—Pierre’s health journey became increasingly complex. Over time, he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and began managing several chronic conditions, including arthritis, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and high blood pressure.

Like many older adults with complex medical needs, Pierre found himself prescribed an overwhelming number of medications—often by specialists across multiple fields—simply to stay healthy and stable.

At the same time, the financial strain continued to grow.

With Medicare premiums, a supplemental insurance plan (both increasing every year), and the rising cost of prescription and over-the-counter medications, making ends meet became increasingly difficult. Pierre retired in 2020, and Social Security became his household’s only source of income. Without Medicare Part D coverage, every prescription came with added stress and uncertainty.

“For the longest time, I was always worried that the stress of life itself would end up requiring even more medication,” says Pierre.

Like many patients trying to stretch limited resources, Pierre searched for savings wherever possible. He switched pharmacies, shopped at Costco, and consistently chose generic medications over brand-name options when available.

Eventually, Pierre had an honest conversation with his doctors about the financial burden he was facing. His cardiologist referred him to a Duke Pharmacy Specialist, who helped explore programs that could reduce or eliminate the cost of his prescriptions. That search led him to NC MedAssist.

“With MedAssist’s help, I can breathe easier,” Pierre says. “Having NC MedAssist on my side is a true blessing.”

Through NC MedAssist, Pierre now receives many of his essential medications at no cost, providing relief that has made a meaningful difference for him and his family. His wife, who is also retired and managing her own health challenges, takes several medications as well, and the couple continues to shoulder the burden of rising insurance premiums together.

For Pierre, access to medication assistance hasn’t just meant savings—it has meant peace of mind.

“It’s made a real difference in our lives.”