Insurance Impact on Access to Migraine Treatments

This document is a survey summary report that investigates the impact of insurance on patient access to treatments for migraine. It outlines the findings from four surveys conducted by Migraine Meanderings and The Headache & Migraine Policy Forum, focusing on how insurance coverage affects the ability of patients to access prescribed treatments. The report details the barriers created by health plans, such as prior authorization requirements and non-medical switching, which hinder patients' access to necessary medications. It presents demographic data of survey participants and highlights the emotional and physical burdens that insurance delays and denials impose on patients. The report also discusses the prevalence of step therapy and its implications for treatment access. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for a collaborative treatment plan between patients and healthcare providers that is supported by insurance coverage. The document concludes with suggested action steps for patients and advocates to address these issues with insurance companies and legislators.