Have you ever found yourself at the pharmacy checkout, shocked at the cost of the medication you need? You are not alone. Some can be so expensive that it may not be affordable for some to justify important medications, even with the help of medical insurance to cover some of the costs.
Thankfully, there are many options to help people pay for their medications, even without insurance. One popular option is a prescription discount card. Most of these cards offer substantial discounts off the retail price of medications, but cannot be used for extra discounts on top of a reduced price through your insurance. However, if the discount card offers a better price than your insurance, you just need to tell your pharmacy that you would like to use the discount card instead of insurance when paying for your prescriptions. These cards sometimes also get you discounts on medications that are not covered by insurance. Below are just a few of the options currently available.
GoodRx – GoodRx has the benefit of offering a free physical card for those without smartphones or limited internet access. If you do have a smart phone, you can also access their app and digital coupons, which help you get even lower prices than the discount card alone. They also have price comparison features, so you can see what you would pay for the same drug at multiple different pharmacies in your area. Request a discount card at www.goodrx.com, download their app, or call (855) 268-2822.
SingleCare – SingleCare is very similar to GoodRx in the services they offer. You can request a physical discount card, but they also have an app and offer additional savings through digital coupons. They also allow you to search for specific medications and compare prices at multiple locations. Visit www.singlecare.com, download their app, or call (844) 234-3057.
ScriptSave WellRx – WellRx does not offer a physical card, but you can print a copy from their website to keep in your wallet. You can also get a digital copy by email or text. While you do not have to sign up for an account, they offer additional services for those who do, like prescription management help and extra discounts. Visit www.wellrx.com or download the app.
California Rx Card – the California RX Card is a free program for California residents with no need to sign up for an account. They do not send a physical card, but you can print a copy from their website to keep in your wallet. You can also have your card sent in a text, email, or just save a digital copy from the site. Visit californiarxcard.com to get yours.
These are just a few discount options available to you, but there are many more available. Sometimes you can get discount cards directly from the drug manufacturer. Some local jurisdictions also offer similar programs, so it is also a good idea to check with your city and county. Try asking or searching for Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs in your area.
It is important to remember that all discount programs will have restrictions. Be sure to verify that your preferred pharmacy participates in any programs you’re considering so you can take full advantage of the savings!
