It is not uncommon for cancer medication regimens to change during the course of treatment. If you have unused, unopened oral medications, you may be able to donate them to individuals who are unable to afford their cancer medications.
The SafeNetRx Cancer Medication Program makes it possible for individuals, families, and caregivers of those affected by cancer to donate unused medications to the Iowa Drug Donation Repository. All medications are inspected by licensed pharmacists and then dispensed at no cost to Iowans who need but cannot afford treatment medications.
Eligibility: Iowans at or below 200% of the federal poverty level as well as individuals who are uninsured or underinsured are eligible to receive donated drugs. Any organization or individual in the country can donate medications in their original sealed container or in tamper-evident packaging. Any pharmacy or medical facility with authorization to dispense per State of Iowa administrative rules may re-dispense donated medications.
How to Donate: We accept oral anti-cancer medications or medications used for supportive care. All medications must be in their original, unopened packaging and must have an expiration date at least six months from the date of donation.
We CANNOT accept controlled substances (morphine, oxycodone, etc.).
We CANNOT accept medications that require refrigeration.
We CANNOT accept certain REMS medications including Thalidomide based drugs (Thalomid, Revelimid, Pomalys and Caprelsa).
Cancer Centers
The following Cancer Centers in Iowa have cancer medication donation receptacles to facilitate the donation of cancer medications for this program. Staff in these centers may assist you to make your donation.
Broadlawns Oncology and Hematology Center, Des Moines
Heartland Oncology and Hematology, Council Bluffs
June E. Nylen Cancer Center, Sioux City
McFarland Cancer Center, Ames
Medical Oncology and Hematology, Des Moines
Mercy Medical Center, Des Moines
Mercy West Cancer Center, Clive
Oncology Center of Iowa, Des Moines
Trinity Cancer Center, Ft. Dodge
If you would like to donate medications directly to the Iowa Drug Donation Repository or sign up your medical facility or pharmacy to dispense medications and supplies, please contact our office at 1-866-282-5817.
How to Request Donated Cancer Medications: If you are a patient interested in receiving donated medications, ask your local health provider or pharmacy if they participate in the Iowa Drug Donation Repository Program. If your health provider or pharmacy does not participate as a local repository, please call our office and we can discuss other options to help you access low-cost medications.
The SafeNetRx Cancer Medication Donation Program is made possible with support from the Iowa Cancer Consortium and the Iowa Department of Public Health.
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