Blue Cross NC invests $240,000 in NC MedAssist, bringing free medication event to Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — North Carolinians struggling with the rising cost of prescription medications will have access to free health resources and medications during an upcoming community event in Wilmington, thanks to a partnership between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina and NC MedAssist.

Blue Cross NC announced a $240,000 investment in NC MedAssist, the state’s only nonprofit pharmacy, to help expand access to prescription and over-the-counter medications for residents across North Carolina.

As part of the partnership, NC MedAssist’s Mobile Free Pharmacy will host a community event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 24 at Christ Community Church in Wilmington. The event will provide eligible residents with free over-the-counter medications, health education resources and wellness support. Additional events are planned throughout the state later this year.

According to Blue Cross NC, the funding will support several NC MedAssist programs, including its Free Pharmacy Program, Mobile Free Pharmacy Program and community outreach initiatives aimed at reducing barriers to health care.

“Health care is too expensive for too many North Carolinians, and prescription costs are a major part of that pressure,” said Arif Khan, senior vice president of enterprise strategy and performance execution at Blue Cross NC. “Partnerships with organizations like NC MedAssist help connect people with needed medications and resources today, while supporting our broader work to make health care more affordable, easier to navigate and more accessible across North Carolina.”

The investment comes as many North Carolina families continue to face increasing health care costs. Through its programs, NC MedAssist provides free prescription medications to eligible uninsured residents and distributes over-the-counter medicines through community events held across the state.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and reducing barriers to care for individuals and families across North Carolina,” said Brenda Vass, chief executive officer of NC MedAssist. “We’re grateful for Blue Cross NC’s investment in our mission and their support of programs that help people access the medications and resources they need to live healthier lives.”

In addition to financial support, Blue Cross NC employees recently partnered with NC MedAssist through the company’s Blue Corps volunteer program. During a six-week project, employees worked alongside the nonprofit to help improve operational efficiency and address organizational challenges using their professional expertise.

More information about NC MedAssist and its programs is available through the organization’s website.