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Drug Companies ’ Patient Assistance Programs
These need-based programs , sponsored by the drug companies , provide name-brand medications to patients at low or no cost . Applications need to be completed and submitted to each drug manufacturer for eligibility and / or enrollment .
Government Assistance Programs
Government programs often offer patients prescription medications at a greatly reduced rate . They are available to patients who meet the specific program criteria . The cost of enrollment varies . Examples include Medicare , the Veterans Administration , and state programs .
Discount Cards
Prescription-savings cards offer prescription discounts to a wide range of patients . Enrollment is quick , easy , and usually free .
Partnership for Prescription Assistance ( PPA )
This service provides you with access to almost 500 public and private programs .
888-4PPA-NOW ( 888-477-2669 ) pparx . org
Resources for Planning Ahead and Making Decisions
Advance Directives
Advance directives are forms that give instructions about care when patients are unable to speak for themselves . Many times loved ones will be asked to make decisions for the patient . Under Ohio law , a person may prepare advance directives so that loved ones will know they are following and respecting the wishes , values , and beliefs of the patient .
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Living wills and health care power of attorney are the two types of advance directives . A living will gives instructions about the kind of treatment a person does or does not want . A living will is only in effect when the patient is permanently unconscious or terminally ill and can no longer speak .
The health care power of attorney identifies a person whom the patient chose to make healthcare decisions when he or she is unable to make decisions , such as when the patient is unconscious .
The hospital can help patients complete the advance directives . For more information , talk to your healthcare provider .
Resources for Services and Education
Listed below are programs for people with heart failure and and related conditions . Talk to your healthcare team if you need more information or additional resources .
Mount Carmel Services
Heart Failure Management 614-234-8860
Patients with heart failure receive specialized care during hospitalization . Inpatient nurse coordinators assist with the patient ’ s care while in the hospital and arrange for followup at Heart Failure Management .
The Mount Carmel Heart Failure Management Team is dedicated not just to treating your heart failure , but to helping you learn to live with your heart failure . An advance practice nurse with oversight by a cardiologist can :
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Teach you how to manage your disease through education and lifestyle changes .
Prescribe medications and monitor their effects on an ongoing basis .