Prescription Costs Bankrupting you?

There are more options than ever to help you or your company cut unnecessary prescription expenses. By exploring alternative programs and price-checking tools, you can make informed decisions that may significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Explore Discount Cards and Grocery Store Programs

Many discount cards and grocery store prescription programs now offer immediate, on-the-spot price checks. Before filling any prescription, take a moment to compare the program’s price against your insurance plan. Sometimes the discount card provides better savings, and sometimes your insurance will. Get into the habit of pulling up your medication on the program’s website and asking the pharmacy clerk to compare the pricing so you can choose the most cost‑effective option.

Consider Domestic Mail‑Order Options

Mail‑order prescriptions have long been a popular way to save, often charging only two copays for a 90‑day supply. Today, new mail‑order options are available that operate independently of your insurance plan. One example is Mark Cuban’s program, Cost Plus Drugs. Check to see if your medication is offered and how the price compares to your insurance. If delivery works for your medication and timing needs, this could result in meaningful savings. Just confirm that shipping is allowed, temperature requirements are met, and the delivery timeframe aligns with your needs.

International Sourcing May Offer Additional Savings

For those on employer-sponsored insurance, you may be asked to explore international sourcing for expensive prescriptions. Prescription claims often make up more than a third of total plan costs each year, making cost‑effective sourcing more important than ever. If your plan doesn’t provide guidance, reputable international options—such as Canadian Med Store—may offer dramatically lower prices. These programs continually expand their medication lists, and the price differences can be surprising.

Leverage Manufacturer Copay Cards and Assistance Programs

You may have heard stories of people paying only a few dollars a month for prescriptions that cost others hundreds. Often, they are using manufacturer copay cards. To see if your medication qualifies, visit the manufacturer’s website and look for a coupon or copay assistance tab. Some prescriptions may also be eligible for a Patient Assistance Program, which could reduce costs significantly depending on your situation.

Your Choices Help Control Group Premiums

Even if your personal savings feel small, choosing the most cost‑effective option can have a meaningful impact on your employer group’s claims pool. Thoughtful decisions today may help reduce next year’s premium increases for everyone on the plan.

Please reach out with questions.

Erica Dumpel, CLU
erica@cdaincnet
www.cdainc.net