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Prescriptions can be incredibly expensive. We have good insurance for our family, but we don’t have any prescription coverage. However, there are a number of ways we have found to save so that it hasn’t hit us too hard! Are you interested in saving on prescriptions? Keep reading, because I have tons of coupons, deals, and tips to share.
Saving on Prescriptions: Coupons, Deals, and Tips
Tell your doctor
The first step is to tell your doctor that you don’t have prescription coverage. For many illnesses, there are a number of medications that will work. Let your doctor know that you need something that has a generic option. You may also find that they have free samples that they can send you home with to help cover some of the days you need the medication.
Gift card deals
Many pharmacies will at one time or another offer gift cards when you transfer a prescription or start a prescription with them. This is money that goes right back in your pocket! If you find this gift card offer in the form of a coupon, you can always see if another store will honor the same deal.
Rewards programs
A number of places have a rewards program to encourage you to remain loyal to their pharmacy. At the drugstores, you can earn rewards on your prescription purchases that will act like money off on other purchases in the store. A number of grocery stores will give you fuel savings associated with filling prescriptions at the grocery store. These rewards can seem insignificant because it doesn’t come back as cash, but they will definitely help save you money.
Price matching
Several stores have a price matching policy that helps you to get the lowest price all in one place. Kroger, Target, and Walmart are three of the larger stores that have this policy. My best advice for this method is to call around and write down each store’s price. You’ll probably find that small mom-and-pop pharmacies have the best prices. Take those prices to your store and ask them to price match. (I tend to do this with Kroger, so that we get the lowest price and earn gas savings!)
Get free prescriptions
If you’re in need of antibiotics or diabetic medicine, check out Publix. They offer free lisinopril, select antibiotics, and metformin. There are no forms to fill out and it doesn’t matter who your insurance provider is. There are no limit on refills either! If you don’t have a Publix near you, many stores offer discounted prices on select prescriptions, like Walmart’s $4 prescriptions.
Ask for longer-term prescriptions
Next time you see your doctor, ask him or her to write your prescription to allow for 90-day supplies. This will let you take advantage of 3-month prescriptions, which can be a significant savings depending on the program you use. Many stores also offer home mailing programs with free shipping (which is perfect if your nearest store isfar away).
Prescription assistance programs
If you have no coverage for prescriptions, there are a few programs that you can turn to. Many were started by pharmaceutical companies and give discounts on specific medications only, but if your medication is one of them, you could save up to 45% off!
Partnership for Prescription Assistance
What tips do you use to save money on prescriptions? Let us know in the comments!
