Contact: Leni Kirkman, Julie Wiley: 210-358-2335

Drug companies save Bexar Co. taxpayers $78 million

University Health System thinks it's about time to say "thanks"

BAKGROUND: For many people, medication is a luxury. What would you choose if you only had enough money to pay either the rent and electric bill or a very expensive medicine? It's a choice real people in our community face every month. And, generally the medicine doesn't get bought. The fact is, sick people remain sick if they can't afford the medication to make them well.

The University Health System's mission to provide the best health care to residents of Bexar County, regardless of patients' financial status, is an expensive undertaking that is partially fund by Bexar County property taxes. But seeing the doctor is just the beginning.

Thanks to the efforts of University Health System's MAP (Medication Assistance Program), patients are able to receive free or discounted medication for their illnesses. Through this program, dozens of drug companies are working with University Health System to provide free medications to the patients most in need.

Since the start of this program in 2000, these companies have generously given more than $78 million in free prescription drugs. Literally tens of thousands of individuals are getting treated and getting well - and the bottom-line savings of $78 million is nothing to sneeze at!

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