Delaware, like other states across the country, is struggling with how best to help the uninsured in their state. Almost 13% of Delaware’s population is uninsured and struggles to find access to the care and services they need. Simply put, lack of healthcare coverage is often a major barrier to access to healthcare -- with serious consequences for patient health.

As a healthcare company that strives to improve the health of people and their families, AstraZeneca believes that we bear a responsibility to help reduce the barriers that can lead to some patients forgoing treatment or medicines they need. We felt the best place to start was in our own backyard – right here in Delaware.

On April 24, 2007, during Cover the Uninsured Week, AstraZeneca announced the start of a new initiative – Healthy Delawareans Today & Tomorrow – which is focused on helping uninsured children and families learn about and access the healthcare services they need to lead healthier lives.

This initiative is a partnership between Delaware’s public and private sectors as well as members of the local healthcare community.

Leading the Way

As the leader of this initiative, AstraZeneca has plans to assist with the following:

• Healthy Delawareans– Today and Tomorrow  Healthcare Resource Guide—
This comprehensive resource is aimed at helping uninsured Delawareans find appropriate medical care, gain access to prescription assistance programs and get transportation to and from medical appointments. For more information, download the Healthy Delawareans-Today & Tomorrow brochure online:in English/ En Español
• Delaware Helpline-With AstraZeneca’s support, the Delaware Helpline held trainings earlier in April to provide their staff members with additional information on existing resources that they can provide to callers seeking information about available health-related programs and services. The Delaware Helpline, at 1-800-464-HELP (4357), is a one-stop resource for identifying available resources for Delawareans in need.
• Healthcare Heroes—As individuals or teams, AstraZeneca employees volunteer in various ways at Delaware healthcare facilities as an expression of personal commitment to delivering on the company’s mission of helping to advance patient health.
• Financial Support—In 2007, AstraZeneca is committing nearly $500,000 across Delaware, including support for “navigators” at community health centers who will work as case managers to help the uninsured access healthcare facilities and services.

AstraZeneca is Part of the Solution

The healthcare system can seem complicated for people without insurance. But it should never be beyond the reach of those who really need it. As a company committed to making health care a more personal and meaningful experience for families, AstraZeneca doesn’t claim to have all of the answers to the needs and questions that Delaware’s uninsured residents may have. But we are committed to working with community partners to help people find their way to better health.