This article aims to explore the access of patient assistance program (PAPs) and the role of pharmacists in improving access to oncology care in Pakistan. PAPs aim to reduce the financial burden of cancer in Pakistan, with pharmaceutical companies providing medication at reduced costs, ranging from 33% to 90%. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in managing these programs, facilitating PAP, pharmacist, oncology care setting, cancer therapy more accessible to those who faced financial barriers to accessing them.
ChalkidouKMarquezPDhillonPK, et al.Evidence-informed frameworks for cost-effective cancer care and prevention in low, middle, and high-income countries. Lancet Oncol2014; 15: e119–e131.
2.
AtifMAhmadMSaleemQ, et al.Pharmaceutical policy in Pakistan. In: Pharmaceutical policy in countries with developing healthcare systems. Cham: Adis, 2017, pp.25–44.
3.
JafreeSR. Existing social protection services in Pakistan. In: Social policy for women in Pakistan. Cham: Palgrave Macmillan, 2023, pp.21–47.
4.
KhanMMAbbasMSAbbasMM, et al.Socio-economic determinants of female satisfaction with basic health units (Bhus) of Punjab, Pakistan. J Posit School Psychol2023; 7: 145–164.
5.
WilliamsK. Accessing patient assistance programs to meet clients’ medication needs. J Am Acad Nurse Pract2000; 12: 233–235.
6.
SaeedSAsimMSohailMM. Fears and barriers: problems in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Pakistan. BMC Womens Health2021; 21: 1–10.
7.
ChenJTSummersKH. Pharmaceutical manufacturer prescription assistance programs: are they worth it?J Manag Care Pharm2007; 13: 611–613.
8.
WeinerSDischlerJHorvitzC. Beyond pharmaceutical manufacturer assistance: broadening the scope of an indigent drug program. Am J Health-Syst Pharm2001; 58: 146–150.