Nearly 3 in 10 American adults who take prescription drugs say that they have skipped doses, cut pills in half, or not filled prescriptions due to cost. Prescription cost may be a very difficult expense for those that don’t have insurance, and those who don’t have sufficient insurance. There are several prescription card programs available to Hamilton County residents which attempt to address these situations.

The Hamilton County Prescription Card Program is available at no cost to all Hamilton County residents and their pets. 9 out of 10 pharmacies participate nationwide. There is an online tool available to check whether your local pharmacy participates in this program. Save up to 80% on generics and up to 40% on brand-name prescriptions. You can check the specific savings for each medication using their online portal. The Hamilton County Prescription Card Program is available whether or not you have other insurance coverage. There are no claim forms to fill out and no membership fees. To obtain this prescription discount card, simply fill out their online form and print the card.

The Ohio Drug Card Program is another program available, at no cost to all Ohio residents. CVS, Kroger, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and many other pharmacies across the state participate in this program. The program uses “lowest price logic”, meaning you either pay a discounted wholsesale price, or a discounted retail price, whichever is lower, saving up to 80% on your prescription. The Ohio Drug Card Program is available whether or not you have other insurance coverage. There are no claim forms to fill out and no membership fees. To obtain this prescription discount card, simply print the card from their online portal.

There are other prescription drug discount programs available nationally, as well. As we discussed in a prior article about prescription drug assistance programs, NeedyMeds.org has helpful information for finding programs to get FREE or low cost medication. They keep information updated on prescription assistance programs, $4 generics programs, medication coupons & rebates. They also provide a Drug Discount card that can be downloaded and printed. Anyone can use the card, but it can’t be combined with insurance. You can use the card instead of insurance if: your medicine isn’t covered by your insurance; or if your insurance has no drug coverage; or if you have a high drug deductible; or if the card offers a better price than your copay. Our prior article about NeedyMeds.org has more information about all the drug discount services they provide.

You can find more resources related to financial assistance with medication prescription cost by selecting the “Financial Resources” or “Medication” category tabs on our Social Service “Utilization Library” page.