24 Sep Savvy Shopper: Save Money on Your Prescriptions

Follow these tips to save money on your prescription costs.

1. Talk with your doctor. The most important piece of advice we will repeat over and over is to talk with your doctor about your prescriptions with our formulary in hand. You can pull it up on your smart phone or print out the section that is applicable to your condition. If your doctor puts you on a medication that you cannot afford and aren’t likely to fill, please talk with your doctor about this right away. It’s far better and safer to review other options together with your doctor than to leave your prescriptions at the pharmacy.

 

1. Shop around. If you are paying a coinsurance amount for your medication or it is subject to your deductible, then it can make a difference to find the right pharmacy. It’s ok to call area pharmacies to shop around and even check out online pharmacies. Some of our members report lower drug costs certain retail centers but be sure to check the prices for your specific medications.

 

1. Use generics when possible. Most of our members do a great job of using available generic medications, but some people still think the brand name is somehow better. Generic versions typically contain the same active ingredients as expensive brand name versions, making them clinically identical. In 2025, you will CGHC continuing to steer out members to generic medications.

 

1. Use mail order. CGHC offers 90-day fills of certain long-term use medication for only two copays.

 

1. Drug discount cards. Many organizations such as AARP, GoodRx and SingleCare offer drug discount cards that may make you eligible for less expensive medications at the pharmacy. Some of them also allow you to compare prices across pharmacies. You can’t use discount cards with your CGHC pharmacy benefits, but it may be possible to buy medications cheaper with the card, especially if your prescriptions are subject to deductible. Pharmacists can be a great resource for information about discount cards.

 

1. While you’re at the pharmacy, get your vaccines. It’s flu season, and getting your vaccines at the pharmacy could save you a visit to the doctor. Flu, COVID and many other vaccinations can safely be administered in pharmacies.

 

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