Medication assistance available

The U.S Department of Human and Health Services has approved the request of the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. to activate the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program, or EPAP, and make it available to residents affected by Super Typhoon Yutu.

EPAP is intended to provide assistance in times of disaster to individuals who do not have health insurance. Eligible people can receive a free 30-day supply of their medications. Prescriptions can be renewed under EPAP for free every 30 days for as long as EPAP is active.

 Find out if you are eligible: EPAP is for people who do not have health insurance. If you have health insurance, such as an individual health insurance policy or employer-sponsored coverage, or public insurance, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or other third-party coverage, you are not eligible to use EPAP. Call the EPAP hotline at 1-855-793-7470 to find out if you are eligible and to register with EPAP.

Find out if your prescription items are covered: EPAP covers most prescription drugs, vaccinations, certain medical supplies, and some forms of medical equipment, including canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and crutches. You can call Express Scripts at 1-855-793-7470 or check the list of items covered by EPAP to learn if your prescription, medical supplies, or medical equipment are covered. Pharmacies must dispense the generic form of a medication unless indicated as Brand Medically Necessary or Dispense as Written by your licensed healthcare provider.

Locate an enrolled pharmacy: All pharmacies in the CNMI are enrolled in EPAP. Additionally, if you are a resident of Saipan or Tinian and are currently off island, you can receive EPAP benefits at an EPAP enrolled pharmacy near you.  

Provide the pharmacy with your prescription information: To receive prescription drugs, you must have at least one of the following:

A new, written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider;

Current prescription bottle (empty or filled);

Prescription called in or electronically transmitted by a licensed healthcare provider;

Proof of an existing prescription

To place an order, request a refill, or speak with a pharmacy technician, call the CHCC Outpatient Pharmacy at (670) 236-8798. Our phone system is automated, allowing you to fill place orders 24 hours a day. (PR)