By Online Prescription Pharmacies

Merck launches guide to drug assistance programs

Merck has launched an initiative to help consumers navigate government and private programs that offer free or discount medicines to low-income patients. The company's "Guide to Affordable Medicine" includes information about public programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, and private programs, such as prescription assistance programs offered by drugmakers. The company will distribute copies of the guide to doctors' offices as well as to local community organizations and consumers who request copies.

Hispanics targeted about drug assistance programs

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) unveiled a national advertising campaign targeting the American Hispanic community to help draw attention to the free or nearly free medicines available to Americans in need. Montel Williams, syndicated talk show host, is the official national PPA spokesman. The campaign includes the "Help Is Here Express"-two buses that stop in towns and cities to educate uninsured and underinsured patients about drug assistance programs. There is also national advertising.