GoodRx is a website and mobile app that compares medication prices to help Americans get the best deal on drugs—but his month they launched a philanthropic initiative that provides medications for free to low-income patients who need more than a bargain.

In its first phase, GoodRx Help has partnered with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) to fully subsidize the cost of nearly 1,000 medications at 23 clinics in 16 states, including California, Texas, Florida, and New York.

To fund the initiative, following the company's initial public offering, GoodRx has contributed more than 1 million shares, valued at over $40 million (as of December 18).

The charity characterized its promise in a press release, calling it a multi-year commitment which is expected to provide over $5 million worth of medications in 2021, its first year.

"We know there are times when discounts aren't enough," said GoodRx co-founder Doug Hirsch. "With GoodRx Helps, we hope to assist more patients who feel they've run out of options, especially in underserved communities that disproportionately face greater challenges when seeking affordable care."

GoodRx, which was launched in 2011, estimates that increased unemployment resulted in 56 million fewer prescriptions filled during the first six months of the pandemic.

Medical providers simply enroll patients into the program, and GoodRx then sends the medication for free to the clinic for the patient's use. The clinics selected for the program primarily serve communities with low income patients.

"Medication affordability is one of the top issues facing patients at Free and Charitable Clinics and Pharmacies throughout the country," said Nicole Lamoureux, NAFC President and CEO. "We are thrilled that GoodRx recognizes this need and has chosen to partner with the NAFC on this important program to help patients receive medications that they need at no cost."

GoodRx partnered with the NAFC because of the association's extensive knowledge and expertise in working with nonprofit clinics and underserved patients.

A participating clinic in Katy, Texas is already praising the program.

"The additional financial assistance GoodRx Helps has brought to many of our patients' lives is incomparable," said Janeth Arteaga Castilleja, Medication Coordinator at Christ Clinic. "This program allows our patients to have one less thing to worry about when it comes to their healthcare. GoodRx Helps has been a blessing in the middle of chaos."

The charity says it hopes to add more locations soon. See the list of clinics involved, so far.

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