R.I. Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Elderly Program provides people age 65 and older and people age 55 – 64 who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits with subsidies to purchase certain medications. RIPAE members can also purchase other prescribed medication at the RIPAE discount price.
RIPAE is only available during the deductible period when Part D does not cover medication or if the drug is not covered by Part D.
The medications for which the subsidy is available are medications used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, anti-infectives, arthritis, asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions, cancer, circulatory insufficiency, depression, diabetes, glaucoma, heart programs, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s disease, prescription minerals and vitamins for kidney patients, and urinary incontinence. A limited allocation to help cover the cost of injectable prescription drugs used to treat MS is also available.
Who Qualifies?
- Elders (age 65 and older)
- People aged 55 to 65 who receive Social Security Disability Benefits
- Must be enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan
- Must not be enrolled in or eligible for Social Security Administration Extra Help Program
Income and Resource Limits
There is no resource test for RIPAE. The income limit for individuals and couples and the subsidy available is shown in the chart below.
How to Apply
Applications are available from the Department of Healthy Aging (OHA) and at senior centers around the state. For more information, or to find the nearest application site, contact the OHA at (401) 462-3000 or The Point at (401) 462-4444. If denied, an appeal can be filed by calling the OHA at (401) 462-3000.
Yearly Income Limit and Resource Limit (2023)
| Age 65 and older | Single Person | Married Couple | State Share | Member Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $0 to $37,015 | $0 to $47,754 | 60% | 40% |
| Level 2 | $37,015 to $46,469 | $47,754 to $58,106 | 30% | 70% |
| Level 3 | $46,469 to $81,473 | $58,106 to $92,938 | 15% | 80% |
| Ages 55-65 and disabled | $81,473 | $81,473 | 15% | 85% |
*For individuals in the lowest income category, the state pays the full cost once the participants yearly out-of-pocket expenses exceed $1,500.