Do you know about 18 million Americans are unable to pay for at least one prescription medication?
It’s no secret that prescription medication costs are high and somehow prohibitive for the underinsured and uninsured. This has particularly been a problem for seniors under several prescriptions.
Luckily, there are several ways you can save money and still put your health first. This guide will outline 11 helpful tips for saving money on prescriptions.
1. Opt For Generic Drugs
After a defined period of time, the formula for branded drugs becomes available for generic use. This means other labs and pharmaceutical companies can come up with similar medicines with the same active ingredients.
Generic drugs tend to be less expensive than the original version. This means you can receive the same prescription while spending less.
If you opt for generic drugs, make a point to read the label on generic drugs to see whether there are additional allergens or active ingredients.
When you are uncertain whether a generic version for your prescription medicine exists, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
2. Shop Online
Individuals in search of cheap medications should consider online pharmacies. Online pharmacies offer competitive prices for common prescription drugs.
If you compare the cost of prescription drugs in an online pharmacy with that of several accredited pharmacies near you, you’ll see the difference.
For example, this online pharmacy is the cheapest place to buy Jardiance today.
However, it’s best to verify the online pharmacy upholds high standards before making a purchase. This ensures you get the best quality of prescription drugs and avoid scammers.
3. Look For Discounts and Coupons
Various drug companies and pharmacies offer coupons and discounts for their products. However, customers need to meet definite requirements.
To see whether you are eligible for these discounts and coupons, you can visit the company or pharmacy website. Note coupons aren’t giveaways, but incentives are used to encourage people to fill their prescriptions with a given pharmacy.
4. Go For Cheaper Alternatives
Most brand-name prescription medicines are expensive, more so if you are paying in cash. Luckily, there are alternative medications that perform the same function, yet they are cheaper to obtain.
Talk to your doctor about possible medication alternatives if you feel the cost is a bit high. Your doctor will always take into consideration possible side effects before recommending any drug.
Cheap prescriptions alternatives that perform similar functions as brand-name prescription drugs should always be your first option when on a budget.
5. Comparing Prices
When shopping for clothes, there is a high chance you visit different stores comparing prices. Similarly, there should be no difference when filling a prescription as prices vary between pharmacies.
Before you fill a prescription at a pharmacy, ensure you ask about their pricing. Compare their price with that of different pharmacies to settle for the cheapest alternative.
There are various online search tools you can use to compare prescription costs among major pharmacies near you. Utilize these tools to help you identify the best pharmacy.
6. Ask For Samples at the Doctor’s Office
There are situations where doctors may provide complimentary samples for new medication they recommend. The sample allows a patient to test whether the drug is effective or not without having to pay a high prescription amount upfront.
However, this does not apply to drugs like ocrelizumab since it is administered intravenously.
7. Evaluate The Copay
Did you know at times, the insurance copays to fill a prescription is more expensive than buying the medicine out of your pocket?
With this in mind, make sure you inquire about the cost of filing a prescription without insurance and compare it with that of a prescription copay.
Making the comparison will help you settle for the best deal.
8. Familiarize With Your Insurance Formulary
If you are looking to save money on prescriptions, ask your insurer to provide you with their drug formulary. This is a list containing medications the insurance company covers.
The lists can be extensive, and it’s best to work with your doctor to explore the best medications for your case.
When a doctor prescribes medicines in the formulary, you are safe as the insurance company will cover.
9. Apply For Prescription Assistance
There occur various prescription assistance programs (PAPs) meant to support individuals who require medication but cannot afford it. Prescription assistance varies in type depending on the provider.
However, most providers like drug manufacturers and local government demand you demonstrate financial need or evidence of denied support by your insurance company.
10. Ask Whether the Medication Is Necessary
If you’ve been taking a particular drug for a long time, it’s worth checking if you still need the prescription. It’d be such a waste to continue paying for a medication you no longer need.
Talk to your doctor and let him assess whether you have improved or not. Where there is an improvement, doctors tend to recommend lifestyle changes and lower your dosage.
However, never take a reduced dosage without speaking to your doctor first.
11. Opt For a 90-Day Supply Plan
Another tip for saving on prescriptions is opting for a 90-day fill. This reduces the price and increases convenience.
In other words, order a three-month supply of drugs you’ll require in the foreseeable future. This best favors individuals on birth control and those using high blood pressure medications.
A 90 day supply plan decreases the total copay compared to refilling every month.
Lower Expenses by Learning Tips on Saving Money on Prescriptions
Whether you are insured or not, there is the need to minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Don’t let high prices be the reason you aren’t taking medication.
Make use of these tips for saving money on prescriptions for a difference. Ensure you work closely with your doctor to help you identify cheaper medication alternatives.
Your doctor can also recommend lifestyle changes to help lower your dosages. Individuals who cannot afford their prescriptions should consider applying for prescription assistance programs.
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