AmeriCares Helps Americans with Thyroid Disease During Thyroid Awareness Month

Stamford, Conn. – Jan. 28, 2014 – AmeriCares is helping thousands of low-income patients in the United States with thyroid disease by providing the equivalent of one month of medication for 15,000 patients with underactive thyroid function. AmeriCares is distributing the medication to safety-net clinics serving the uninsured and underinsured through its U.S. Medical Assistance Program. Patients of eight clinics in five states – Colorado, Florida, Michigan, North Carolina and Texas – will benefit. The donation was provided by AbbVie in recognition of Thyroid Awareness Month.

“Thyroid disease is more common than people realize, and patients who require medication to control their thyroid function may require treatment for life,” said AmeriCares Medical Director Dr. Frank Bia. “Thanks to AbbVie, we are helping thousands of low-income Americans access the medication, preventing gaps in thyroid replacement therapy.”

AmeriCares U.S. Medical Assistance Program provides donated medicines, vaccines and medical supplies to more than 600 free clinics, community health centers and health departments serving the uninsured and underinsured. AmeriCares made more than 3,000 shipments to U.S. safety-net partners last year, providing $70 million in prescription and over-the-counter medicines as well as medical supplies for patients in need.

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