Talk to your doctor or counselor about the medicine you need. Ask if there is a generic version or a similar generic medicine that will work for you.
Ask for a generic medicine. Generic medicines are safe and effective copies of brand name drugs that have been approved by the federal government. Many generic medicines are available at very low costs through a Discount Generic Drug Program.
Discount Generic Drug Programs are available at most large retail pharmacies. A month’s supply of a generic prescription can cost as little as $4. Each discount program offers a different list of generic medicines. You may have to shop around to find a program that covers your generic medicine. If you shop at an independent drug store, they may be willing to match a lower generic drug price.
Apply to Patient Assistance Programs
(PAPs) for free or low cost medicine directly from the drug company. Most drug companies offer generic or brand
name drugs to uninsured, low-income patients with a current prescription. Get help applying for prescription medicines from:
-Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPARX), toll free at 1
-888-477-2669, or at www.pparx.org. -Get more information from The Get Covered Helpline, toll free, at 1-888-753-7315.
Use the Chautauqua County Prescription Discount Card it is free for all county residents. Contact the Get Covered Helpline, toll free at 1-888-753-7315 or download a card at www.caremark.com/chautauqua If you have Medicare, you will not need a prescription drug card to get the best savings. . There are other free discount card programs, and most will result in an average 20% savings on brand named drugs. Discount cards are not prescription insurance.
Shop around and compare prices. If your medicine is a newer, or specialty drug, and only available in a brand name, there are several ways you can lower your monthly medicine costs –
Compare prices at different drug stores in your neighborhood. Prescription medicines can vary in price by 30% or more. Talk to your pharmacist who may be willing to match a lower price from another pharmacy.
Compare prices among local pharmacies using the Internet by going to the New York State Health Department website at
ww.rx.nyhealth.gov.