US Medical Term · pharmacy
Patient Assistance Program
Programa de Asistencia al Paciente
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Patient Assistance Program |
| Spanish (Español) | Programa de Asistencia al Paciente |
| Chinese (中文) | 患者援助计划 |
| Korean (한국어) | 환자 지원 프로그램 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Chương trình Hỗ trợ Bệnh nhân |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Programa sa Tulong ng Pasyente |
| Portuguese (Português) | Programa de Assistência ao Paciente |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โครงการช่วยเหลือผู้ป่วย |
| Japanese (日本語) | 患者支援プログラム |
What it means
A patient assistance program (PAP) is a manufacturer-run program that provides free or heavily discounted brand-name prescription medications to qualifying patients who have low income, lack insurance, or have inadequate drug coverage. Eligibility requirements vary by drug and manufacturer but typically include proof of income, a current prescription, and a completed application. Many major pharmaceutical companies operate PAPs, and nonprofit enrollment assistance organizations can help you apply. If your medication is unaffordable, ask your doctor or hospital social worker about available PAPs, or search the drug manufacturer's website for application instructions.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
PAY-shent eh-SIS-tens PRO-gram
programa de asistencia al paciente
Abbreviated as PAP; sometimes called 'free drug program'
Abreviado como PAP; también llamado 'programa de medicamentos gratuitos'
Your doctor can write a letter supporting your PAP application
'Su médico puede escribir una carta de apoyo para su solicitud de PAP'
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026