NORD Launches Financial Assistance Programs for MG Patients in US

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting those with rare diseases, has launched new patient assistance programs for people with myasthenia gravis (MG) living in the U.S.

The new assistance programs aim to help patients who have limited financial resources with out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, such as health insurance deductibles and copayments. Patients also can receive financial assistance to help cover the costs of medical appointments, prescribed medications and tests, and forms of rehabilitation therapy.

At the moment, NORD is offering two types of assistance programs for those with MG: a premium and copay program, and a medical assist program.

The premium and copay program is intended for MG patients who have health insurance. It seeks to provide financial support to help these individuals cover the costs of health insurance premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance costs related to MG.

In contrast, the medical assist program is intended for those who do not have health insurance, or for those for whom medical coverage has been refused. In addition to providing financial assistance with medical appointment costs, prescribed MG therapies, and lab or diagnostic tests, this program may cover mileage and travel expenses for MG-related medical appointments.

Both programs are open to U.S. citizens and those living in the country for at least six months, who can provide a proof of residency, such as a utility bill with their name and home address. Eligible applicants need to have a confirmed diagnosis of MG.

In addition to meeting these criteria, applicants must show financial eligibility, which will be verified by a RareCare patient services representative through an electronic income verification, or EIV system.

A RareCare representative will guide applicants through the process. Patients who do not initially meet the criteria for support will be sent an application and disclosure forms by e-mail, fax, or mail. The applicant then can provide the appropriate financial documentation to verify need, and return the forms to NORD for further evaluation.

Program awards are granted on a first come, first served basis, and are valid for an entire calendar year. Those requiring continuous financial assistance are encouraged to reapply.

Once accepted into one of the two programs, patients will be eligible to receive reimbursements for their medical expenses, or have them prepaid by NORD.

Importantly, all claims must be submitted within 30 days following the service and be accompanied by a receipt or proof of payment. After receiving all information, NORD will issue a reimbursement within 10 business days.

In addition to MG, NORD is currently offering patient assistance programs for other rare diseases. A complete list of the programs being offered by the nonprofit can be found here.