"I was fortunate enough to personally benefit from AZ&Me after losing my job and medical insurance," said Rev. Tammie Denyse, Carrie's Touch founder and president. "Without the support of this program, I would not have been able to receive my cancer medicine during this critical point in my treatment process. I am grateful this program exists."

Sacramento County Supervisor Roger Dickinson said, "AstraZeneca's commitment to providing free medicine is a crucial part of getting Sacramentans the care they need during tough economic times.  Many low-income workers don't have access to employer-sponsored health insurance and others lost coverage when they became unemployed during the recession.  Donated medicine ensures people get needed care and relieves financial pressure on an overburdened county health system."

In 2009, AstraZeneca provided more than $27.7 million in savings to more than 15,900 patients in California under its prescription savings programs ??“ known as AZ&Me. Nationally, the company helped more than 507,000 patients save $769.6 million on their medicines.

SOURCE AstraZeneca