10 Tips for Saving on Prescription Drug Costs

  1. Ask your doctor to allow a generic substitution for your prescription, if appropriate. Generic medicines are often as effective as brand name medicines but tend to be much less expensive. It’s important to let your doctor and the pharmacist know that you prefer the generic version, since in some cases your pharmacist may not be able to substitute the generic without your doctor’s consent.
  2. If you must use a brand-name medicine, ask your doctor if there is a less-expensive brand-name medicine available.
  3. Visit price-comparison websites. Sites such as www.rxprice quotes.com, www.goodrx.com, and www.pharmacychecker.com are possible resources to start your search. Prices vary dramatically from pharmacy to pharmacy, and these sites show you where to get the best deal—before you leave home.
  4. Sit the Medicare site at http://tinyurl.com/939fksy to see if you qualify for the Extra Help program through Medicare.
  5. Contact the manufacturer of the drug you need and ask if it offers help to pay for it.
  6. If you have Medicare, find out if you qualify for a different plan that provides the specific medications you need at a lower cost. Visit the Medicare Plan Finder at http://tinyurl.com/7dzt2do.
  7. Investigate mail-order pharmacies.
  8. Find out if any charitable programs can help. Visit www.benefitscheckup.com to start your search.
  9. Search for state pharmaceutical assistance programs on the Medicare website at http://tinyurl.com/z3hbw6m.
  10. Advocate for lower prescription drug prices. For more information, visit the Campaign for Sustainable Rx Pricing at www.CSRxP.org.
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