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Advocacy Services Case Studies Labor Union
About the Client:
Client Sector:
Labor Union
Solution:
Retiree Benefits Management
Advocate:
Shyanne Bender
Summary
Helping a Retiree Navigate a $2,000 Medication Grant Application
Challenge
Healthcare today is fractured, overwhelming, and potentially cost-prohibitive. This is true for anyone, let alone retirees living with medical conditions on fixed incomes. When one of our retiree members was prescribed a medication with a price tag of over $2,000 for a 30-day supply, he knew he needed help. He and his wife called their dedicated Advocate team at LaborFirst.
Solution
The couple spoke to their Advocate, Shyanne Bender. Shyanne took immediate ownership of the situation. She called the couple’s pharmacist and asked if there were any relevant co-pay assistance programs for this medication or the patient’s diagnosis. Their pharmacist provided the name of a non-profit that had approved a similar medication grant in the past.
The grant provider’s application process included multiple steps, document submissions, and specific technical requirements that could easily overwhelm any member trying to navigate it alone. Rather than handing over a list of instructions to the couple, Shyanne guided them through the entire process, explaining which documents were needed, when to submit them, and how to upload files directly from their phone when technology felt too intimidating.
“The couple had complete trust in me to submit their application, make follow-up calls, and help obtain approval for the grant.”
—Shyanne Bender, Advocate
Results
Thanks to their Advocate, the couple’s grant was successfully approved, completely covering the $2,000 monthly medication cost. Their positive experience and personal connection formed the beginning of a lasting relationship. Today, when the couple calls LaborFirst, they request Shyanne by name. Building meaningful relationships is what defines our service model, as they empower real healthcare advocacy when members need it most.
