January 20, 2025
What is the 340B Drug Pricing Program?
The 340B Drug Pricing Program is a federal initiative established in 1992 to ensure healthcare providers serving low-income, uninsured, and underinsured populations can purchase outpatient prescription drugs at significantly reduced prices. These savings enable providers—called “covered entities”—to reinvest in patient care by funding life-saving medications, early detection programs, and support services.
For breast cancer patients, especially those battling aggressive forms like Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), the 340B program can mean the difference between life-saving treatment and financial devastation. It bridges the gap for those in underserved communities who might otherwise lack access to the care they need.
The program’s impact extends far beyond cost savings—it ensures equitable healthcare access, particularly for communities disproportionately affected by breast cancer disparities.
How I Learned About 340B: A Transformative Moment
As an Angel Advocate with the Tigerlily Foundation, I had the privilege of attending their webinar, “HEALing Policy for Change”, which focused on the 340B program and its critical role in the breast cancer community. The webinar was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of how policy impacts patient outcomes.
Hearing stories of how 340B has provided access to treatment, screenings, and supportive services for underserved populations was transformative. For me, it underscored how critical this program is for ensuring that individuals, regardless of income or background, have a fighting chance against diseases like breast cancer.
The Tigerlily Foundation: A Beacon of Hope
The Tigerlily Foundation, founded by breast cancer survivor Maimah Karmo is dedicated to eliminating disparities in breast cancer care for women of color and underserved populations. Through education, advocacy, and direct support, the foundation empowers patients and advocates alike to create systemic change.
Key Programs Include:
- Angel Advocacy Program: Trains survivors and advocates to push for health equity and meaningful policy changes.
- Educational Webinars: Covers topics such as health disparities, policy impacts, and healthcare programs like 340B.
- Young Women’s Breast Health Day on the Hill: Provides opportunities for advocates to meet lawmakers and champion policies impacting breast cancer patients.
- Support Resources: Offers survivorship tools, financial assistance, and mental health support.
The Tigerlily Foundation has played a vital role in my advocacy journey, giving me the knowledge and confidence to amplify my story and push for equitable care.
Learn more at https://www.tigerlilyfoundation.org or contact them at (888) 580-6253 or info@tigerlilyfoundation.org.
My Journey with TNBC
In 2023, my life was turned upside down when I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, a highly aggressive form of breast cancer that disproportionately affects women of color. Early detection through genetic testing was a key factor in my survival, but access to care made all the difference.
As I reflect on my journey, I often think about the women who don’t have access to genetic testing, treatment options, or financial support. Programs like 340B address this disparity by ensuring care is accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation.
From funding chemotherapy to offering mental health resources, the 340B program supports women through the most challenging times of their lives—just as it would have for me if my circumstances had been different.
Resources for Patients
If you or someone you know is battling breast cancer and in need of affordable care, here are some resources in Ohio and beyond:
PrimaryOne Health
- Website: http://www.primaryonehealth.org
- Phone: (614) 645-5500
- Address: 2300 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43204
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Contact: Request the patient assistance program coordinator
Licking Memorial Health Systems
- Website: https://www.lmhealth.org
- Phone: (220) 564-4000
- Address: 1320 W Main St, Newark, OH 43055
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Contact: Ask about financial assistance programs
Tigerlily Foundation
- Website: https://www.tigerlilyfoundation.org
- Phone: (888) 580-6253
- Email: info@tigerlilyfoundation.org
HRSA 340B Program Locator
- Website: https://opanet.hrsa.gov/340b
- Use this database to find 340B-participating facilities near you
NeedyMeds
- Website: https://www.needymeds.org
- Phone: (800) 503-6897
- Provides information on free or low-cost medications
Attribution
This article references publicly available information to provide accurate and verifiable details about the 340B Drug Pricing Program, breast cancer advocacy, and related resources. Sources include official websites and programs such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), the Tigerlily Foundation, PrimaryOne Health, and Licking Memorial Health Systems. Full citations are listed in the “Sources Cited” section at the end of this article.
Conclusion
The 340B Drug Pricing Program is a lifeline for breast cancer patients, offering hope and critical support to those who might otherwise go without care. By amplifying the voices of advocates, survivors, and communities, we can ensure programs like 340B remain strong and accessible. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the resources they need to survive and thrive.
Sources Cited
- Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/opa/index.html
- Tigerlily Foundation Website: https://www.tigerlilyfoundation.org
- HEALing Policy for Change Webinar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/tigerlily-foundation_healpolicy4change-publichealth-340bprogram-activity-7284576380409827328-mYZZ
- PrimaryOne Health: http://www.primaryonehealth.org
- Licking Memorial Health Systems: https://www.lmhealth.org
- HRSA 340B Facility Locator: https://opanet.hrsa.gov/340b
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