Federal emergency prescription program activated to support uninsured CNMI residents following Sinlaku

Washington (HHS) – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services , through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program for residents of Saipan, Rota and Tinian.

The program helps uninsured individuals replace essential prescription medications and certain medical equipment that may have been lost or damaged due to Typhoon Sinlaku. 

EPAP enables eligible individuals to receive up to a 30-day supply of prescription medications at no cost from participating pharmacies. Refills may be authorized in 30-day increments for as long as the program remains active.

EPAP can cover replacement of select durable medical equipment and supplies, including items such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood glucose meters, and test strips. Certain vaccinations administered at retail pharmacies may also be eligible. 

“Disasters can disrupt access to critical medications and supplies, creating serious health risks—especially for those without insurance,” said John Knowx, ASPR principal deputy assistant secretary. “Through EPAP, HHS is working to ensure that uninsured residents in affected communities can continue to access the care and medications they need during recovery.” 

Uninsured residents in the impacted areas can call the EPAP hotline at 855-793-7470 or visit the EPAP website to check eligibility, confirm covered medications or supplies, and locate participating pharmacies. Individuals enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or the Children’s Health Insurance Program are not eligible, as they are considered insured under the program. 

EPAP offers a streamlined way for enrolled pharmacies to submit claims for covered prescription medications, vaccines, specific medical supplies, and certain types of DME for eligible individuals in federally designated disaster areas. Thousands of pharmacies across the country participate in EPAP, and pharmacies that do not yet participate are encouraged to enroll. 

In response to Typhoon Sinlaku, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. declared a public health emergency for CNMI and Guam to address the storm’s health impacts. This action follows President Trump’s major disaster declarations for both Guam and CNMI. Activation of EPAP is one component of the broader federal response supporting impacted communities. 

ASPR has also deployed response personnel and resources to the region, including a National Disaster Medical System Health and Medical Task Force, a Health Care System Assessment Team, a behavior health team, and an Incident Management Team. These teams are supported by medical equipment and supplies to assist with delivering care and assessing health system needs.