Why Medication Costs Matter
Prescription medications help manage chronic conditions and keep you healthy—but for many older adults, the cost of prescriptions can be a real burden. The good news? There are many ways to save.
💡 Smart Tips to Lower Your Medication Costs
✅ Ask About Generics
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic version is available and appropriate for you. Generic medications often cost less than brand name.
✅ Review Your Medications Regularly
- Bring all medications (or a current list of all medications) to each doctor visit.
- Ask: “Do I still need all of these?” or “Can I take fewer pills each day?”
✅ Shop Around
- Prices can vary between pharmacies.
- Mail-order pharmacies sometimes offer discounts
✅ Use a Preferred Pharmacy
- Many Medicare drug plans (Part D) have preferred pharmacies that offer lower co-pays.
- Check your plan’s website or call customer service to find the best option near you.
✅ Order a 90-Day Supply
- Many plans offer savings if you get a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacy if this is available for your medications.
✅ Ask About Pill Splitting
- Some medications can be safely split (if your doctor says it’s okay), allowing you to buy a higher dose and split the pill in half—saving money.
- Never split pills without your doctor’s approval.
💳 Programs That Can Help
💊 Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans)
- Compare plans every year during Open Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7).
- Use gov/plan-compare or call 1-800-MEDICARE for help.
💸 Medicare Extra Help
- A Medicare program that helps pay for prescription drug costs.
- May lower or eliminate your premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.
- Apply at gov/extrahelp or call 1-800-772-1213 (Social Security).
Prescription Discounts
- GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/
- SingleCare: https://www.singlecare.com/
- RxSaver: https://www.rxsaver.com/
- WellRx: https://www.wellrx.com/
- Optum Perks: https://perks.optum.com/discount-card
- AARP Prescription Discount Card: https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/health/rx-discounts-optumrx/
- BlinkRx: https://www.blinkrx.com/
🧾 State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
- Some states offer additional savings programs.
- Check with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for availability.
🏥 Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs
- Many drug companies offer free or discounted medications to people with limited income.
- Ask your doctor or visit org or check your medication’s manufacturer’s website for any coupons, discount codes, etc.
BenefitsCheckUp®
Are you a Veteran?
- If so, some of these additional resources may be available to you:
- Meds by Mail (MbM)
- Medications through the VA
- VA Health Benefits Hotline – 877-222-VETS (8387)
🚨 Avoid These Common Pitfalls
- Don’t skip doses to save money — it can lead to serious health problems.
- Be careful with discount cards that ask for payment or personal info upfront — stick to trusted sources.
- Don’t assume your plan still offers the best deal — check each year.
Need Help? You're Not Alone.
If you're unsure where to start, ask for help from:
- Your pharmacist
- Your primary care provider
- A Medicare counselor or state SHIP representative
- Local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) – you can search for this online by typing “[insert your location] area agency on aging” into your web browser/search engine
They can help you review your options and apply for assistance.
You deserve access to the medications you need without breaking the bank.
With a few smart steps, you can find ways to lower your costs and stay on track with your health.