Ways to Save on Medication

With our new insurance policy, we do not have prescription coverage.  Let me tell you, it stinks!  However, I have realized that there are ways to reduce the out of pocket expense.  This will also be helpful to those of you with a Health Reimbursement Account because the less you spend on medicines, the more you have left in your account for doctor visits.

If you have any tips other than those listed below, please email them to me.  I would love to hear your suggestions!

• Before you need them, check around at local pharmacies for the price of medicines you take.  For example, I get a sinus infection at least once a year and I always take a z-pack.  I checked with a local pharmacy chain and their cash price was $44.95.  I also checked with McCormicks pharmacy in White House, and their cash price was only $19.95!  That is a big difference!  You can guess where I went when I needed the medication.
• Keep a list in your phone or in your car of the $4 generics offered at Walmart (or other pharmacies).  Take the list to the doctor with you and ask if one of these medicines will work for you.  As an example, a doctor recently told my husband to take Prilosec.  Generic Prilosec is about $15 for a months supply.  However, generic Zantac is only $4 for a months supply at Walmart.  Had we known that up front we could have asked for Zantac instead.  The list of discounted medications available at Walmart is here.
• Keep a list in your phone or in your car of the free antibiotics offered at Publix.  Take this list to the doctor with you and see if they might work for you.  The list is here.
• Keep a supply of over the counter medicines.  As you find them on sale buy them even if you don't need them, because chances are, you will need them eventually.  I was a Kroger last week and they had 8oz bottles of generic Robittussin for $1.42!  I bought a couple bottles because I know we will need them eventually.  Just be sure to check the expiration date and make sure to get one with a far off expiration date.
• The State of Tennessee offers a program called Cover RX for individuals without prescription coverage.  Income limitations apply.  For a family of four you must earn less than $53,000.  The income eligibility chart is here.  Additional information on the program is available here. 
• The United Way offers a free drug discount card for individuals and families without prescription coverage.  You can save 30% or more at participating pharmacies.  There are no income limitations.  You can print your card here.

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Ways to Save on Medication