Novo Nordisk Offers Insulin for Free to Those Affected by Pandemic

Novo Nordisk yesterday offered free insulin for 90 days to patients who have lost their healthcare benefits because of the COVID-19 pandemic. If a patient’s Medicaid benefits are denied, assistance can be extended until the end of the year, the company said.

Novo Nordisk is also offering an immediate supply for patients who need time to produce documentation of loss of health insurance. The program provides a free one-time supply of up to three vials or two packs of pens for patients with a prescription.

Meanwhile, Minnesota has enacted an emergency insulin access law that caps the price for a 30-day supply of the medicine at no more than $35 for patients with less than a week’s supply.

Manufacturers also must make 90-day supplies of insulin available for no more than $50 for an individual making $51,000 annually or a family of four earning $104,800.

Drugmakers who fail to comply with the new law face millions of dollars in fines. — James Miessler