Americans all over the country are spending more than necessary on medications. In many cases, this is due to the fact they aren’t aware of the different ways to save. Here are 10 ways you can cut your medication costs.
1. Opt for generic brands
Read More »2. Coupons
Manufacturers may offer discounts in the form of coupons. They may do this to convince you to buy their prescription compared to the competition out there. There may be multiple different pills designed to do the same thing. Look online or ask your doctor. Look into RetailMeNot Rx Saver, Search Rx, GoodRx, OneRx, Blink Health, and ScriptSave WellRx to see how they can help you save money.
3. Compare prices
Prices of a prescription may vary based on the pharmacy you go through. Compare prices at different pharmacies to learn where yours will be the cheapest. You can reduce cost just by going to the right pharmacy. Don’t assume that your pharmacy is the cheapest for new medications. Shop around again.
4. Patient assistance programs
Many companies understand just how expensive pills and other supplies can be. However, many people with diabetes and asthma need these medications to stay healthy. Without the medications, they could even die. However, people may not have the income. Luckily, there are patient assistance programs. Many people on a fixed income or who don’t make much money may qualify for the assistance programs to help reduce costs.
5. Change your insurance plan
Your insurance plays a large role in how much your medication will cost you. Talk to your employer about different options that may help you save when you go to the pharmacy. If your work doesn’t have any better options for you, look into getting your insurance from a third party. If it leads to you saving in medication every month, it may be worth the change.
6. Rewards programs
There are a number of rewards programs out there for people with chronic conditions who need to pick up medication every month. These rewards programs may come from the pharmacy. The more you pick up from the one pharmacy, the more rewards you get. This means it may pay for you to stick with one place to get your medications from.
7. Try OTC options
Many people must pay high prices for Rx medication when an over the counter (OTC) option would be sufficient. This is particularly true when it comes to small injuries or illnesses. Instead of getting cold medicine from the doctor, it could be cheaper to buy cough syrup at the store. Many OTC medications are approved by the FDA and complete the same things as the medication prescribed by the doctor.
8. Buy in bulk
It may be wiser to buy medications in bulk amounts. For example, if you buy six-month supply, it will be cheaper than buying it every single month. Talk to your doctor about getting as large of a Rx as possible.
9. Discount card
There are discount cards available for people to get a discount on medications. Look up the Easy Drug Card online to ensure that you qualify. Don’t forget to bring it with you every time you pick up your medication. You may even be able to download a mobile app to make it easy to take your discount card with you everywhere.
10. Try alternative treatments
Not every condition requires medication to treat it. Certain problems, including mental health conditions, may be addressed through alternative methods. Start by focusing on your health in general. Exercise and eat well. Get your family involved, too! You should also look into holistic treatments to help reduce pain, anxiety, and depression.
Health is of the utmost importance. However, it can be expensive to stay healthy. Use these tips to make the cost more manageable.
