The PAN Foundation opens new neurotrophic keratitis patient assistance fund
For immediate release
PAN foundation contact:
Maggie Naples, Director of Marketing and Communications
Email: mnaples@panfoundation.org
Washington, D.C. (October 22, 2019) – The PAN Foundation today opened a new patient assistance program for people living with neurotrophic keratitis. Neurotrophic keratitis, also known as neurotrophic keratopathy, is a rare degenerative disease of the cornea characterized by the reduction or loss of corneal sensitivity.
The National Organization for Rare Disorders estimates that about 5 of every 10,000 people are living with neurotrophic keratitis each year. Patients are eligible to receive grants from PAN to pay for the deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance costs associated with their treatment for the disease.
“When left untreated, patients with neurotrophic keratitis risk losing their vision entirely,” said PAN President and CEO Dan Klein. “Thanks to our generous donors, we are proud to help patients cover their out-of-pocket treatment costs so they can focus on improving their health and reclaiming their quality of life. The cost of therapy should never impede someone from seeking care.”
Patients who qualify for the PAN Foundation’s Neurotrophic Keratitis Assistance Program are eligible to receive $4,000 per year in financial assistance. Eligible patients must be getting treatment for neurotrophic keratitis; must have Medicare health insurance; and the patients’ income must fall at or below 500 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.
Patients, caregivers, or advocates applying on their behalf can apply for assistance using the PAN Foundation’s online patient portal (www.panapply.org), or by calling 1-866-316-7263, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.
About the PAN Foundation:
The PAN Foundation is an independent, nationwide 501(c)3 organization dedicated to providing help and hope to underinsured patients who are unable to afford the out-of-pocket expenses for their prescribed medications. Since 2004, PAN has provided over $3 billion in financial assistance to nearly 1 million patients who would otherwise be unable to afford their medications. To learn more, visit www.panfoundation.org.