Pricey Prescriptions

Pricey prescriptions gotcha down? There are a few options to look into when filling your medications even if you have insurance. 

• Grab those prescription discount cards displayed at the doctor's office or pharmacy counter tops. 

Example cards

As you can see, I have several and I carry them with me all the time. Different pharmacies accept different types or you may get a better discount with one card over another. The key is to have options! These cards usually can be used in conjunction with insurance.  If not they sometimes give you a bigger discount than insurance and it may be worth while to use it instead of your insurance. 

• Research price differences at your local pharmacies. 

Some places offer free antibiotics or cheap generic medications. A little bit of time can save you a good chunk of change. These pharmacies that offer cheaper generic medications usually offer even more of a discount if you purchase your "long term" medication in larger quantities. For example I have to take thyroid medication daily for the rest of my life, Walmart charges $4 for a 30 day supply or $10 for a 90 day supply for my particular medication. A few phone calls or quick 5-10 minute internet search can usually help determine the price for your local pharmacies.

• Download the Good RX app. 

This app is the newest tool I have found to combat those pricey prescriptions.  It is easy to use and can help save you save hundreds depending on your prescriptions. I first decided to try this app, when my regular pharmacy didn't get my son's medication in on time and then proceeded to tell me it was on back-order. I decided to take the prescription to another pharmacy only to be told they don't accept my insurance and it was going to be $288 for a month supply of medication. I was at a loss, what do I do? So I went to the car to calm down and collect my thoughts when the Good RX advertisement (Thanks Hulu) came to mind.  

I downloaded the app, searched my son's prescription and I was presented with a list of pharmacies and prices they offered for the medication. 

Example of Medication Search

I finally had found a reasonable solution.  Not only did I have options since my regular pharmacy couldn't fill it, but now I found out that when the medication is in stock, I can get it for approximately $10 cheaper than through my insurance at my regular pharmacy. I now have made it a habit to check the app every time one of us has to have a prescription filled just to make sure we are always paying the lowest price possible.  Once you find the price and pharmacy you would like to use you can save the coupon and present it at the time of purchase.

Example Coupon to Present to Pharmacy 

The app has great money saving features, such as alerts to let you know if another pharmacy other than your selected favorite, has your medications for a lower price.  It also has a specific tool called "Find My Best Pharmacy."  This tool helps you find the pharmacy with the lowest total price for all your medications so that you don't have to use several pharmacies just to save money.

Example Savings Alert and Tool

Prescriptions and medications are a necessity for most of us to live happy, healthy, "normal" lives whether we want to admit it or not.  Whether you have an infection, virus, or need to take daily medication for a variety of reasons these methods are simple, free, and easy to do in order to save you money on the medications you need.  Don't go without when there are options that make medication affordable.  Remember, every little bit counts and can add up to a huge saving!!!