For uninsured and low-income patients in Tennessee, access to essential medications can mean the difference between thriving and struggling with poor health. Ascension Saint Thomas, in partnership with Dispensary of Hope, is meeting this critical need by providing free medications to underserved communities across the state.
Founded in Middle Tennessee, Dispensary of Hope began as a local effort to redistribute unused medications to those in need. Over time, this mission grew into a national program. Today, Dispensary of Hope operates as a subsidiary of Ascension, working with pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide life-saving medications to nonprofit pharmacies that distribute them at no cost to patients.
David Neu, vice president of pharmacy at Ascension Saint Thomas, works closely with Dispensary of Hope through five Ascension Rx pharmacies in Middle Tennessee to expand access to prescription medications. “Without reliable and affordable access to prescription medications, patients are more likely to struggle with managing their health, which can impact their quality of life and lead to costly care, including visits to urgent care, emergency departments, or hospitalizations,” Neu said. “It is part of our mission to serve all persons, with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable. Being able to access appropriate medications for disease management is an essential part of managing health and preventing hospitalizations. That is why this partnership with Dispensary of Hope is so important in the communities we serve.”
To qualify for Dispensary of Hope, patients must be uninsured, earn no more than 300% of the federal poverty level, and complete an application process. In 2025, 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL) is $45,180 for a household of one, $61,320 for two people, $77,460 for three people, and $93,600 for four people. National statistics show that more than 27 million Americans are currently uninsured, and many benefit from programs like Dispensary of Hope.
In the past year, Dispensary of Hope filled 1.2 million prescriptions nationwide for 164,000 patients, delivering more than 3,000 free prescriptions every day. The program has reported a 50% reduction in hospital stays and a 35% decrease in emergency department visits, with these cost savings largely attributed to its interventions.
For its efforts to eliminate barriers to healthcare, Dispensary of Hope received the American Pharmacists Association Foundation’s Pinnacle Award last fall. Its collaborative work with Ascension, Ascension Rx, and other healthcare partners ensures that individuals facing financial hardships continue to receive the care they deserve, transforming lives and improving health outcomes.
Together, Ascension Saint Thomas and Dispensary of Hope are making a meaningful impact on the lives of underserved individuals and families by providing access to vital medications, preventing costly health issues, and improving overall well-being. Through these ongoing efforts, Ascension Saint Thomas is committed to ensuring that all patients, regardless of financial or insurance status, receive the quality care they need.
For more information, visit Ascension.org or DispensaryofHope.org.
