Evaluating the landscape of discount and patient assistance programs for topical sunscreen products in the United States

Abstract

The use of topical sunscreen plays an important role in dermatologic care through mitigation of ultraviolet-mediated damage and prevention of cutaneous malignancy. 1 Moloney F.J. Collins S. Murphy G.M. Sunscreens: safety, efficacy and appropriate use. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002; 3: 185-191https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200203030-00005 Crossref PubMed Scopus (109) Google Scholar Despite preventive health benefits, sunscreen is regulated as an over-the-counter product for which consumers typically bear the full cost. Besides tax-advantaged saving plans, samples from physicians’ offices and nonprofit organizations, free sunscreen dispensers, and retail discounts, patients have limited means to reduce the financial burden when purchasing sunscreen compared with that when purchasing prescription drugs. For patients requiring year-long use of sunscreen (eg, those with xeroderma pigmentosa and solid organ transplant recipients), the estimated annual cost is US $292, which may add to health disparities. 2 Mahé E. Beauchet A. de Maleissye M.F. Saiag P. Are sunscreens luxury products?. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011; 65: e73-e79https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2010.06.043 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (19) Google Scholar Patient assistance programs (PAPs) can increase patient access to needed medications. 3 Johnson P.E. Patient assistance programs and patient advocacy foundations: alternatives for obtaining prescription medications when insurance fails. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2006; 63: S13-S17https://doi.org/10.2146/ajhp060464 Crossref PubMed Scopus (22) Google Scholar To this end, we sought to evaluate the current landscape of discounts and PAPs for sunscreen in the United States.