FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ST. PAUL, Minn.—The Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program launched today, July 1, 2020, allowing Minnesotans in urgent need of insulin (less than a 7-day supply on hand) to access the lifesaving drug through their pharmacy. The program – implemented by MNsure, the state's health insurance marketplace, and the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy – was created to help Minnesotans facing difficulty affording their insulin.

The Insulin Safety Net Program is made up of two parts: 1) The urgent need program for eligible Minnesotans to receive a once-per-year 30-day supply of insulin immediately at their pharmacy for no more than a $35 copay; and 2) The continuing need program for eligible Minnesotans to receive up to a year supply of insulin for no more than $50 per 90-day refill.

Interested individuals should visit MNinsulin.org to see if they qualify and learn how to apply.

"If you live in Minnesota and can't afford your insulin, come to MNinsulin.org to see if you qualify for the Insulin Safety Net Program," said CEO Nate Clark. "On MNinsulin.org, you can find details about the urgent need program and instructions on how to apply. You can also get help accessing affordable insulin year-round. MNsure has nearly 200 certified navigators located across the state who have been trained to help Minnesotans access affordable insulin through existing insulin manufacturer assistance programs. No Minnesotan should have to ration their insulin. Get help at MNinsulin.org today."

"Access to affordable insulin is vital to Minnesotans who need it to manage diabetes. Nobody's health should be in jeopardy because they have to ration or go without this life-sustaining medication," said Cody Wiberg, Executive Director of the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy. "Visit the Board of Pharmacy website to learn more about the Board of Pharmacy's role in the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program and find information about obtaining other medications at lower costs."

Who qualifies?

Those eligible for the urgent need program must:

• Live in Minnesota.
• Have an urgent need for insulin.
• Have a current prescription for insulin.
• Pay more than $75 each month for their insulin prescription.
• Not be enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare.
• Present a valid Minnesota ID card, driver's license or permit, or tribal-issued ID to the pharmacy. For children under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must provide the pharmacy with their proof of residency.

How to apply?

• Go to MNinsulin.org to print the application. Bring the completed application to your local pharmacy. All pharmacies in Minnesota must participate.
• If you are unable to print the application, ask your pharmacist to provide you with an "urgent need insulin application" to complete at the pharmacy.

Looking for help accessing affordable insulin year-round?

• If you have an ongoing need for affordable insulin, contact a trained MNsure navigator for free help applying for the continuing need program through an insulin manufacturer's patient assistance program. Go to MNinsulin.org to search for a navigator in your area.

MNsure is Minnesota's health insurance marketplace where individuals and families can shop, compare and choose health insurance coverage that meets their needs. MNsure is the only place you can apply for financial help to lower the cost of your monthly insurance premium and out-of-pocket costs. Most Minnesotans who enroll through MNsure qualify for financial help.

The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy is the state agency that regulates the practice of pharmacy and the manufacture and distribution of prescription drugs. It exists to promote, preserve, and protect the public health, safety, and welfare by fostering the safe distribution of pharmaceuticals and the provision of quality pharmaceutical care to the citizens of Minnesota.