Finding the Right Prescription Drug Program
Each year millions of Americans across the United States who do not have the benefit of health insurance or prescription drug coverage plans are faced with costs that they are often unable to afford, causing them to risk their health, lives, and sometimes even their bank accounts by turning to companies that claim to offer prescription drug benefit packages for a low fee, but yet never deliver on their promises.
On October 10th, 2008, Good Morning America recently featured a segment on fraudulent companies that were bilking unwitting consumers of their money by charging them a membership or processing fee that would enable consumers to receive prescription drugs for free or for a small fee. What the segment went on to uncover was that this service is already available to consumers for free, and that the companies were turning a profit on someone else's misfortune.
Legitimate Free Prescription Drug Programs
Fortunately there are programs out there designed specifically to help people who can't afford their prescription drugs, such as the government's Medicaid and Medicare programs. Consumers can also contact the pharmaceutical companies directly for assistance, or visit this website for more information.
Many pharmaceutical companies offer coupons and rebates on medicine, so be sure to visit the companies websites or contact them by phone to find out more information. Even some retailers like Wal-Mart, Target, Publix and others are also doing there part to help by offering some medications, such as antibiotics, for free or reduced prices.
Save on Medicines
Patients can take steps of their own to cut costs by letting their doctors know that they are unable to afford more expensive medicines. If the medication is not available in generic, the doctor may be able to prescribe a similar medicine that's available at a lower cost to the patient.
As a last resort, free samples may be able to get a patient started, but they shouldn't be depended on, as physicians may not have the particular medicine, or may have limited supplies. Samples are distributed by pharmaceutical representatives in limited quantities, and doctors are required to maintain inventories and lot numbers just as the local pharmacy does. This causes some physicians to shy away from accepting samples.
Remember that pharmacies are in competition with one another. Shop around to find the lowest prices. For more information on how to get help with prescription drug costs and to avoid prescription drug scams, check out the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website.
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