How to Save Money on Your Prescription Drugs

The high cost of prescription drugs in the United States leaves many patients searching for lesser known savings opportunities such as manufacturer copay relief programs, aka copay card programs. Copay relief programs are offered by brand pharmaceutical manufacturers to help lower a patients out of pocket expense. They’re often referred to as “copay cards” for the savings provided by lowering a patients copay at the pharmacy counter. Patients who are enrolled in a commercial health insurance plan are eligible to enroll in Rx copay assistance. These programs are usually not based on financial need and the process to apply is quick and easy.

Copay cards are often available at physician offices, pharmacies, on the drug manufacturers’ website, and sometimes even by your health plans PBM (pharmacy benefit manager). A simple google search of the brand medications name plus “copay card” should locate any patient advocate services available. The savings differs depending on the drug manufacturers Rx copay assistance program. For example many brand insulin manufacturers cover $150 to $250 per month, while certain specialty manufacturers cover thousands in monthly patient out of pocket expense. The savings can be very significant and offers better healthcare price transparency to consumers. Once enrolled in a copay relief program, simply provide your prescription along with insurance and copay card to your preferred pharmacy. The pharmacist will enter your insurance information in a primary field, and your copay card info in a secondary field. Your insurance card will provide you with your health plan copay or discount, then the copay card will cover the appropriate manufacturer support.

NICK RISTAU

Senior Account Manager, MDRX