Across the nation, and here in Southeast Kansas, many people are struggling to afford prescription medications. According to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll, one in five U.S. adults reported that they or a household member did not fill a prescription because of the cost.
Addressing this challenge is central to the mission of the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK). CHC/SEK works to ensure everyone has access to quality, affordable healthcare—including their prescriptions. This commitment to affordability has been a guiding principle at CHC/SEK since its founding, with roots that extend back to an initiative that began at Mt. Carmel Medical Center decades ago.
“At Mt. Carmel, I witnessed the difference that access to medications made in patients’ lives firsthand,” said Krista Postai, CHC/SEK Chief Executive Officer. “At CHC/SEK, we’re proud to continue this legacy. Over the years, our efforts have evolved and expanded, allowing us to serve more patients and ensure they don’t have to make difficult choices between basic needs and their medications.”
This work continues with support from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas Mount Carmel Legacy Grant for CHC/SEK’s Prescription Assistance Liaison (PALs) program. This grant helps support CHC/SEK’s prescription assistance efforts, providing Crawford County patients with medications at reduced prices or no cost.
In Crawford County, the need is great. In 2025, more than 2,800 CHC/SEK patients received prescription assistance through three Apothecare Pharmacy locations in Pittsburg. Apothecare staff facilitated a total of 23,594 prescriptions for community members who were facing financial difficulties.
“If you can’t afford your medications, we make sure you get them—and we’re very proud of that,” said Postai. “Our pharmacy team works to accommodate needs and fill gaps, all while preserving each person’s dignity.”
Access to affordable prescriptions benefits the community in many ways, including improving health and lowering the cost of healthcare.
Affordability is especially important for those with chronic health conditions, who may need to take many medications to manage their illness. “For patients with chronic conditions, regularly taking their medications can help improve their quality of life and support their long-term health,” said Lisa Wells, CHC/SEK Vice President of Pharmacy. “Ensuring they can access their medications can help prevent serious health complications down the road or even potential hospitalizations.”
Prescription assistance is available to CHC/SEK patients who qualify at each Apothecare Pharmacy. For more information or to find the closest Apothecare location, visit chcsek.org/service/pharmacy.