AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN) today announced its first-ever direct-to-patient program offering patients with a valid prescription for ARIMIDEX or anastrozole the opportunity to have the brand ARIMIDEX delivered directly to their home by Express Scripts, a specialty pharmacy services provider, for $40 per month, including shipping.
"ARIMIDEX Direct marks a first for AstraZeneca," said Steve Davis, Executive Director, Foundation Brands, AstraZeneca. "We believe it is also the first time eligible patients have a nationwide direct-to-patient option. The program offers the brand ARIMIDEX at the low cost of $40 per month via home delivery," Davis continued. "It is an important new way for AstraZeneca to help meet U.S. customer needs."
Calls from patients seeking information on how to obtain the brand ARIMIDEX more affordably helped spur creation of the direct-to-patient program. Upon further research, AstraZeneca confirmed that eligible patients could realize significant cost savings through ARIMIDEX Direct.
ARIMIDEX Direct does not require a qualification process, nor is a coupon or savings card needed. The program is open to all patients with a valid prescription for ARIMIDEX or anastrozole who elect to receive and pay for the brand ARIMIDEX on their own. Prescription insurance coverage, including Medicare and Medicaid, cannot be used for any type of reimbursement.
There are two ways to enroll in ARIMIDEX Direct. Patients may download the form from ARIMIDEX.com and then mail in their prescription and enrollment information, or their physician can fax the enrollment form and prescription to 1-800-698-3759. Patients can expect to receive their first shipment of ARIMIDEX within 5 to 7 days. Physicians can prescribe a limited number of tablets to be filled at the patient's local pharmacy until the first prescription arrives.
ARIMIDEX Direct is the latest development in AstraZeneca's long tradition of innovation in oncology. Over the years, AstraZeneca has produced some of the world's leading cancer treatments and made significant strides against breast cancer. Further, AstraZeneca has long played a leadership role in raising awareness about breast cancer and the importance of screening. The AstraZeneca Foundation was one of the founders of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In addition, AstraZeneca is proud to be an award recipient of the CEO Gold Standard Accreditation from the CEO Roundtable on Cancer since 2006.
Patients or physicians with questions can call 1-800-637-3616 to contact ARIMIDEX Direct Customer Service between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM ET, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.