WASHINGTON, April 6, 2012
In partnership with Corcept Therapeutics Inc., the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has established a Cushing's Syndrome Patient Assistance Program for patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome who need financial assistance with certain costs related to their medical diagnosis and/or care.
Endogenous Cushing's syndrome is a serious and debilitating rare disorder caused by over-production of cortisol, a steroid hormone that increases blood sugar levels, by the adrenal glands. The syndrome most commonly affects adults between the ages of 25 and 40.
"It is especially appropriate that we are making this announcement just before Cushing's Awareness Day, which will be observed on Sunday," noted NORD President and CEO Peter L. Saltonstall. "The Cushing's Support and Research Foundation (CSRF), a non-profit organization for patients and families affected by Cushing's syndrome, is a member of NORD. We are pleased to join CSRF and the entire Cushing's community in promoting awareness of Cushing's syndrome at this time."
The new program, which launches on April 11, will provide assistance with deductible and/or co-pay expenses to ensure patient access to Korlym™, a drug developed by Corcept and approved by the Food and Drug Administration earlier this year.
The program will also provide financial assistance to eligible uninsured and underinsured patients for reasonable expenses required for diagnosis, direct treatment, and care that are not covered by insurance. These would include incidental medical expenses such as lab and diagnostic tests, as well as related expenses such as travel for a medical consultation.
Patients seeking information about the program, or to apply, may contact NORD through a toll free phone number (800 999-6673 Ext. 326) or by email (cushings@rarediseases.org).
Prior to FDA's approval of Korlym™ on Feb. 17, 2012, there were no approved medical therapies for the treatment of endogenous Cushing's syndrome. Korlym™ is approved for use in patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome who have type 2 diabetes or glucose intolerance and are not candidates for surgery or have not responded to prior surgery.
NORD is a nonprofit organization, established in 1983, that represents the 30 million Americans with rare diseases. In addition to patient assistance programs, NORD provides programs of advocacy, education, awareness, and research.
SOURCE National Organization for Rare Disorder (NORD)
