These days, doctor’s visits can turn into a costly experience. It doesn’t matter if you have a chronic condition or a short-term illness, the instant you need an appointment and a prescription, you’re destined to rack up some big expenses.Even with decent health insurance, you may be left to cover most of your prescribed medication costs. And when insurance companies don’t cover these costs, you may be forced to make life-or-death decisions about whether to pay for your medication or other bills, like your rent.
A recent poll titled “Life Experience and Income Equality In the United States” showed that nearly half of the adults who were denied coverage for their prescriptions ended up choosing not to get their prescriptions filled at all. However, even if you can’t get your prescriptions completely covered by health insurance, there are ways to save money on drugs if you look hard enough. You can find the medication you need to stay healthy, and you don’t have to break into the piggy bank to do it. Here are a few ways to save on prescriptions.
1. Sign up for a pharmacy discount card.
While it’s always best to make price comparisons on medication, such as choosing a generic drug versus brand-name medication, you can still save big with an Rx pharmacy discount card, such as the one offered by USArx. The discount card provided by USArx can help you save up to 75% on medications. These discounts aren’t only applied to prescribed medication, either; they also apply to over-the-counter medications, depending on what you need. You can sign up for a free discount card at USArx today.
2. Buy your medication in bulk if you can.
Sometimes getting frequent refills of your medication causes you to rack up small incidental fees that can add up over time. For example, you might have to pay a copay with each refill. But, if you make fewer trips to refill your prescription, you can cut your copay significantly. The easiest way to avoid extra expenses is to talk to your doctor about filling your prescription for 90 days versus 30 days. Sometimes this may mean signing up for a prescription delivery service, but ultimately such services help save you time in addition to money.
3. Look into generic medication.
Most people assume that brand-name medication is always the best way to go, but sometimes a generic option is better.
Even if your doctor writes you a prescription for a brand-name medication, you can always ask them to switch it out for the medication’s generic version. If one is available, it’s usually a more cost-effective option. Plus, generic medication usually mimics the brand name equivalent, containing the same ingredients. If you’re worried about making a switch, just ask your doctor if the generic is a good substitute for the name-brand. Chances are, they’ll confirm that it is.
4. Shop around for better bargains.
Sometimes your nearest pharmacy won’t offer the best prices for your medication. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices. Check out the pharmacies at places like Walmart, Target, or even your local grocery store. Be aware; every pharmacy isn’t required to charge the same price for your medication. Find a supplier that works for you.
5. Find out If you’re a candidate for financial assistance.
Most states offer financial Pharmaceutical assistance programs (PAPs). Drug companies usually control these assistance programs. If you meet a specific guideline, these assistance programs will provide low cost or free medication to those in need.
With sufficient research, you may be able to find a program that will work for you and your family.
Look into every option listed. Take a glance at USArx’s website while you’re at it. We all look for ways to save, and there are friendly staff members at these pharmacies who are willing to help you do what you need to to stay healthy. The best thing you can do is ask for help. This is especially true if you’re in a position where you can’t pay all your bills, and you’re having to make tough choices. When all else fails, ask your doctor if they have extra samples of your meds on hand, or call the drug manufacturer directly and ask if you can get help with your prescriptions. You might be surprised—they might just say yes.
