The biggest savings usually come from four things: switching to a generic, asking for a 90-day supply, asking your doctor about a lower-tier drug on your plan’s formulary, and checking manufacturer or state assistance programs. A pharmacist can check all four in a few minutes.
The checklist
- Generic available? Generics have the same active ingredient and are often a fraction of the price.
- 90-day supply. Many plans charge less for a three-month supply of maintenance medications.
- Formulary alternatives. If your drug is on an expensive tier, there may be a similar drug on a lower tier. We can ask your doctor.
- Prior authorization or exception. If a drug is not covered, your doctor can request an exception. See prior authorization help.
- Manufacturer copay cards. For many brand-name drugs, manufacturers offer copay cards for commercially insured patients. (They generally can’t be used with Medicare or Medicaid.)
- Patient assistance programs. Manufacturers and foundations help people with low income or high costs.
- Medicare help. The Part D out-of-pocket cap, the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan and Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy). New York’s EPIC program can also help eligible seniors.
- Cash price vs. insurance. For some cheap generics, the cash price or a discount card is lower than your copay. Ask us to compare.
No insurance?
At Mega Health Rx, generics start as low as $4.99. We compare discount programs and cash prices and will make sure you get the best available price.
What not to do
- Don’t skip doses or split pills to stretch a prescription without asking your doctor or pharmacist.
- Don’t buy prescription drugs from unlicensed websites.
Get a cost review
Bring your medication list or pill bottles and ask for a medication review. Cost is one of the things we check.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to save on prescriptions?
Ask for a generic and a 90-day supply, and ask whether a lower-tier alternative is on your plan formulary.
Is a discount card cheaper than insurance?
Sometimes, for low-cost generics. Your pharmacist can compare both prices.
Can I use a manufacturer copay card with Medicare?
Generally no. Manufacturer copay cards are usually only for commercially insured patients.
How much are generics without insurance at Mega Health Rx?
Generics start as low as $4.99.
Switch in about a minute
Tell us where you fill now and we handle every call. Free delivery anywhere in NYC, or pick up at 64-51 108th Street.