How important are copay cards to patients? Our research suggests insurer policies may limit their impact.
This study explores patient perspectives on copay cards and copay adjustment programs (CAPs)—insurer policies that redirect copay card benefits, potentially increasing out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. Researchers surveyed and interviewed 33 patients with chronic conditions to understand how these programs affect their ability to afford medications.
Findings show that patients associate copay cards with reducing financial burden, improving health and maintaining medication adherence. However, many were unaware of CAPs, despite experiencing their effects. Participants emphasized the need for greater education and transparency around these policies to ensure access to critical treatments.
This research was funded by Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine and conducted in collaboration with Dimika Cavalier, an independent contributor and patient participant of the Janssen Patient Engagement Research Council, and researchers from CorEvitas. For full details on the study design, methods and limitations, see: Cavalier D, et al. Patient perceptions of copay card utilization and policies. J Mark Access Health Policy. 2023;11(1). doi: 10.1080/20016689.2023.2254586.