Good Rx
;
Blink Health
;
AARP prescription discounts
and
Single Care
a
re four different programs you can use to reduce the cost of prescription medications even if you already have insurance. These programs can be used
instead
of your prescription drug plan to purchase a medication but cannot be used
together
with such a plan to buy the medication.
All these programs are available to the public at no cost. However, note that AARP members receive higher discounts under the AARP program than do non-AARP members (you can download a card from the AARP prescription discount link in the above paragraph) and that GoodRx offers a membership program at a cost of $5.99 per month that offers even higher discounts than the free Good Rx program. You should check out the Good Rx Gold plan (see the last sub-heading in this article, below) to see if you can obtain even greater savings by upgrading to this paid membership plan.
This blog prepared by
Good Rx
suggests different ways you can save on your drug costs
:
There are many ways you can reduce the price you pay for the medications your family needs.
Generic vs. Brand
Brand-name drugs are expensive. Generics are generally much cheaper. If you've been prescribed a brand-name drug, ask your doctor if there is a generic available. Generics approved by the FDA have the same dosage, safety, strength, method of use, quality, performance and intended use as the brand-name drug.
GoodRx
will show you if there is a generic equivalent for any brand-name drug you look up.
Pill Splitting
For many drugs, an increase in dosage does not mean a corresponding increase in price. Many Americans ask their doctors for a higher dosage and then simply split their pills in half. For example, if you're supposed to take a 20mg tablet, have your doctor prescribe a 40mg tablet.
Always check with your doctor and pharmacist before splitting your pills though; it's only safe with certain types of tablets.
Mail Order vs. Retail
Mail-order pharmacies are often cheaper than retail pharmacies. This is particularly true if you have insurance — your co-pays may be lower if you order a 90-day supply through your insurance company.
However, you can also save by paying out-of-pocket and ordering online from sites like
HealthWarehouse.com
, Express Scripts Pharmacy, or your local pharmacy’s home delivery service
Just Ask
Many pharmacies will negotiate on prices... if you ask. Some pharmacies have price-matching programs, but not all of them advertise it.
Discount Coupons
These coupons can reduce your cost up to 75% from the walk-in cash price. Most U.S. pharmacies accept these coupons.
Manufacturer Coupons
Pharmacy Discount Programs
Many major pharmacies offer a limited list of discounted generic drugs. In addition, some pharmacies offer additional discounts when you join a free or paid membership program.
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