Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, and its cost can be a concern for many, especially Medicare beneficiaries. Fortunately, several assistance options are available to help reduce the financial burden. In this article, we explore how the Trulicity assistance program for Medicare works, alternative savings opportunities, and how patients can access Trulicity at a lower cost.
What Is the Trulicity Assistance Program?
The Trulicity Patient Assistance Program is offered by Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Trulicity, to help eligible patients get their medication at reduced or no cost. While this program is primarily designed for uninsured or underinsured individuals, Medicare recipients may also qualify under certain conditions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Lilly Cares (Eli Lilly’s patient assistance program), patients must:
- Have a valid prescription for Trulicity.
- Meet income guidelines.
- Be a U.S. resident or legal citizen.
- Not be eligible for full drug coverage through Medicare Part D unless they meet specific hardship criteria.
➡ Visit LillyCares.com to check your eligibility and apply online.
Does Medicare Pay for Trulicity?
Yes, Medicare does cover Trulicity, but coverage depends on your specific plan:
Medicare Part D
Trulicity is typically covered under Medicare Part D (prescription drug plans). Most Part D plans include Trulicity on their formulary (list of covered drugs), often in a Tier 3 or Tier 4 category, which means higher copayments.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Some Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage (MAPDs) may also cover Trulicity. However, coverage, pricing tiers, and prior authorization requirements vary by plan.
👉 It’s essential to compare plans during open enrollment to ensure your Trulicity prescription is included at an affordable rate.
How to Get Trulicity for $25
Eli Lilly offers a Savings Card (Trulicity Copay Card) that allows eligible patients to pay as little as $25 per month for their Trulicity prescription. Unfortunately, this card is not valid for Medicare beneficiaries due to federal anti-kickback regulations.
However, some strategies to reduce out-of-pocket costs for Medicare recipients include:
- Switching to a Medicare plan with better Trulicity coverage.
- Applying for Extra Help through Social Security for Part D cost assistance.
- Requesting tier exceptions or formulary appeals with your plan.
- Using Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) from non-profit foundations or state pharmaceutical assistance programs.
How Much Is Trulicity Without Insurance at Walmart?
The retail cost of Trulicity without insurance varies by pharmacy. At Walmart, the average price for a one-month supply (4 pens of 0.75 mg or 1.5 mg) is approximately $850–$950. Prices may vary based on:
- Dosage strength
- Pharmacy location
- Supply duration
💡 Tip: Use drug price comparison tools like GoodRx to find the lowest retail price in your area.
Alternative Savings Options for Trulicity
If the standard Medicare coverage and manufacturer assistance are not enough, consider the following:
- Nonprofit Organizations: Groups like PAN Foundation or NeedyMeds may offer grants for diabetes medication expenses.
- State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs): Some states help Medicare enrollees with prescription costs.
- Mail-order Pharmacies: These often offer lower prices for long-term prescriptions.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the cost of Trulicity on Medicare can be challenging, but help is available. From Trulicity assistance programs to smart Medicare plan selection, beneficiaries have options to significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Work with your healthcare provider and pharmacist to explore eligibility and choose the best path to savings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does Trulicity have a patient assistance program?
✅ Yes. Lilly Cares offers a Trulicity assistance program for qualifying patients, including some on Medicare who meet certain financial hardship criteria.
Q2: Does Medicare pay for Trulicity?
✅ Yes. Trulicity is typically covered under Medicare Part D and some Medicare Advantage plans.
Q3: How can I get Trulicity for $25?
🛑 The $25 copay card is available only for commercially insured patients, not Medicare beneficiaries. However, other forms of assistance may help lower costs.
Q4: How much is Trulicity without insurance at Walmart?
💵 Approximately $850 to $950 per month depending on the dosage and location.
Call to Action
If you’re a Medicare beneficiary looking for affordable access to Trulicity, start by:
- Visiting www.Medicare.gov to compare plans.
- Checking eligibility at www.lillycares.com.
- Contacting your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free help.
