5 ways to get help with prescription costs

Prescription drug costs can be a significant burden, especially for individuals enrolled in Medicare drug coverage (Part D). Even with insurance, you may find yourself facing high expenses due to annual spending limits or entering the coverage gap. Luckily, there are several strategies you can employ to help alleviate the costs of prescription drugs. In this article, we will explore five effective tips and provide valuable insights on how to access financial assistance programs and navigate the complex landscape of prescription drug coverage.

1. Consider switching to generics or lower-cost drugs

One of the most straightforward ways to save on prescription drug costs is by switching from brand-name drugs to generic alternatives or lower-cost medications. Generic drugs are typically more affordable than their brand-name counterparts and often provide the same therapeutic benefits. By discussing these options with your doctor, you can determine if switching to generics or other lower-cost drugs is a viable solution for you. Additionally, using mail-order pharmacies can help reduce prescription expenses by offering competitive pricing and convenient delivery options.

You can also better equip yourself to save with your insurance plan’s formulary (the list of covered drugs by a prescription plan) at your side.

2. Choose a Medicare drug plan with gap coverage

When selecting a Medicare drug plan, it is essential to consider one that offers additional coverage during the coverage gap, commonly known as the “donut hole.” These health plans may provide reduced costs for generic drugs, helping to alleviate the financial burden during this period. However, it’s important to note that plans with additional gap coverage often come with higher monthly premiums. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh the potential savings against the increased costs before making a decision. You can check with your drug plan to determine if your medications will be covered during the coverage gap.

3. Explore pharmaceutical assistance programs

Drug companies sometimes offer savings programs to assist individuals enrolled in Medicare drug coverage. These programs can help lower prescription costs for specific medications. It is worth researching whether there are any Pharmaceutical Patient Assistance Programs available for the drugs you take. These drugmaker programs can provide substantial savings and make your medications more affordable.

4. Look into State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs

Many states, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands, offer assistance programs to help individuals with prescription medication costs. These State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) can help cover drug plan premiums, prescription costs, and other related expenses. If you are struggling to afford your medications, it is worth exploring whether your state has an SPAP that can provide financial support.

5. Apply for Extra Help

Medicare and Social Security jointly administer a program called Extra Help (also known as the Medicare Part D low-income subsidy) which assists individuals with limited income and resources in paying for prescription drugs. If you qualify for Extra Help, you may be eligible to pay significantly reduced prices for your medications. The program sets limits on out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring that you do not face exorbitant costs. To determine if you qualify for Extra Help, you can apply through Medicare or Social Security. If approved, you can enjoy the benefits of substantial cost savings.

Additional strategies to lower prescription drug costs

While the aforementioned strategies can be highly effective, there are additional measures you can take to further reduce your prescription drug costs. Let’s explore these options:

Prescription savings club programs

Some pharmacies offer prescription savings club programs. These programs allow you to fill prescriptions for hundreds of generic drugs at significantly reduced prices. These programs can be particularly beneficial for individuals without insurance coverage or those who require ongoing medications.

Utilize health insurance discounts and assistance programs

Your health insurance provider may offer additional discount programs available to help lower your prescription drug costs. These programs can provide preferred rates at participating pharmacies, allowing you to access medications at reduced prices. Additionally, some drug manufacturers offer copay discount programs for branded drugs, which can be advantageous for individuals with insurance coverage.

Explore community pharmacies and independent pharmacies

Community pharmacies and independent pharmacies often have more flexibility in pricing medications compared to larger chain pharmacies. It is worth discussing your prescription drug costs with your local pharmacist, as they may be able to offer lower prices or alternative options to help make your medications more affordable. Independent pharmacies, in particular, may even be able to match or beat the prices of chain or online pharmacies.

Look for promotions and pharmacy discount programs

Keep an eye out for promotions and drug discount programs offered by pharmacies in your area. Some pharmacies may have limited-time offers on specific medications, allowing you to purchase them at significantly discounted prices. Additionally, certain retail pharmacies may offer year-round discounts on generics, providing further opportunities to save on prescription drug costs. Make sure to check with in-network pharmacies to explore these options.

By implementing these strategies and exploring the various assistance programs available, you can significantly reduce your prescription drug costs. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider and pharmacist to identify the most suitable options for your specific needs. With the right approach, you can navigate the complex landscape of prescription drug coverage and ensure that your medications remain affordable.

Sources

• 5 ways to get help with prescription costs – Medicare.gov
• Help with drug costs – Medicare
• 5 Ways to Save on Prescription Drugs – Consumer Reports
• Options for those who are having trouble affording drug costs – Medicare Interactive