Low-income patients are being denied access to lifesaving medications due to the restrictive income eligibility guidelines of the BI Cares Patient Assistance Program. The current policy cutoffs of 200-250% of the Federal Poverty Level for many patients suffering with chronic conditions including COPD and Diabetes which leaves behind many our most vulnerable community members that struggle with limited access to inhalers and medications to help them manage their diabetes.

With this current low coverage cutfoff, we see people every day struggling to make ends meet will continue to be denied essential brand name prescription drugs. Being forced to choose between bills, food, and life-saving medications. This perpetuates unequal access and poor health outcomes based on income. Failing to act now means people will suffer without the medications they desperately need.

The time to expand access is now. We call on BI Cares to immediately adjust income eligibility for all medication groups to industry standard to a minimums of 300-400% of the Federal Poverty Level. While still conservative, 300%-400% FPL would offer a more equitable opportunity to access aid. The coverage should be fair and regardless of a patient's health condition and not provide preference from one patient to the next as a non-profit organization.

BI Cares must amend its income guidelines to champion equitable access for all patients in need. We urge you to take compassionate action today to ensure no one is denied lifesaving assistance due to restrictive policies. Expanding eligibility will save lives.