Why are drug savings programs a better choice than discount cards?

Drug savings programs often offer more substantial and consistent discounts on medications compared to discount cards. Here are some reasons why they might be a better choice:

1. Coverage: Savings programs typically cover a wider range of medications, including brand-name drugs and generics.

2. Discounts: They often negotiate larger discounts with pharmacies, resulting in lower out-of-pocket costs.

3. Stability: The savings can be more predictable and reliable, with less fluctuation in prices.

4. Program Structure: Many savings programs are tailored to specific needs, such as chronic conditions, providing more targeted assistance.

5. Additional Benefits: Some programs may provide extra services like medication counseling, follow-ups, or adherence support.

6. No Hidden Fees: Savings programs are less likely to have hidden fees or costs associated with their use. Discount cards might have enrollment costs or other charges.

Choosing the right option depends on individual circumstances, so it's good to compare and see which one suits your needs best.

Why discount cards are challenging for independent pharmacies?

According to Mark Hamstra of DrugstoreNews.com,

'"While pharmacy retailers concede that prescription discount cards can drive traffic into their stores, they can carve away the already thin margins of many independent pharmacy operators. This has led many independents to decline to accept the cards."

“In a lot of cases these discount cards actually make more off the prescription than the pharmacy does, which makes no sense,” said Patrick Berryman, senior VP and chief operating officer at the National Community Pharmacists Association. There are also patient data concerns, because in most of these cases, these are the pharmacies’ patients, and the pharmacies are concerned about where that data goes,” said Berryman. “They're concerned with what these companies are doing with the patient's data because they're getting the patient information, they're getting the drugs they're on, etc. They're concerned that data may be going places it shouldn't be going and it's getting sold.”?

In addition, some of the discount cards either don’t work with independents, or treat independents differently than they do large chains, he said. Some cards, for example, require that in order for a pharmacy to be listed in their pharmacy locator service, they need to be certified by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, which may be too expensive for many independents.

Furthermore, some of the cards also promote the mail-order services of the PBMs they work with, Berryman said. They often also promote telehealth, which may conflict with the relationships that independent pharmacies have with local physicians, he said.

“We just encourage patients to ask their pharmacists, and shop around and ask what the cash price is,” said Berryman. “That’s how patients can do the best, frankly.”

Why are some attracted to TotalRx.net as a better alternative?

TotalRx.net offers several compelling benefits for subscribers:

1. Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing on a wide range of prescription medications, potentially reducing your overall healthcare costs. There is no formulary limiting the medications allowed. If it is FDA approved, you will obtain a substantial reduction in costs.

2. User-Friendly Platform: A straightforward and easy-to-navigate website makes managing your prescriptions simple and efficient.

3. Accessibility: A large network of partner pharmacies ensures you can fill your prescriptions conveniently, regardless of location. Pharmacies throughout all fifty-states, Puerto Rico, Guam, US-Virgin Islands and Washington D.C. accept TotalRx.net.

4. Delivery Services: Options for home delivery can save you time and effort, providing added convenience.

5. Reliable Customer Support: Dedicated USA-based support teams are available to assist with any issues, ensuring you get the help you need quickly.

6. Insurance Compatibility: Often works with various insurance plans to streamline your pharmacy experience, making it more seamless.

If concise pricing, convenience, and strong support are important to you, TotalRx.net is a valuable choice.

Here are some sources that support the points made about drug savings programs compared to discount cards:

1. Coverage:

? ?- The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) discusses how patient assistance programs often cover a broader range of medications, including both brand-name and generic options.

2. Discounts:

? ?- A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation highlights how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) negotiate discounts, indicating that savings programs can often secure deeper discounts than typical discount cards.

3. Stability:

? ?- Research published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy shows that structured savings programs tend to offer more consistent pricing, reducing the unpredictability associated with discount cards.

4. Program Structure:

? ?- Many nonprofit organizations, like NeedyMeds, provide tailored assistance programs specifically designed for managing chronic illnesses, demonstrating the targeted nature of some savings programs.

5. Additional Benefits:

? ?- Studies from the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy have noted that many savings programs offer supplementary services such as medication counseling and adherence support, which are less common with discount cards.

6. No Hidden Fees:

? ?- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued guidance regarding the potential hidden costs associated with discount cards, underscoring that savings programs generally have clearer fee structures.

When considering options, it's wise to investigate specific programs and compare their offerings based on your personal health needs and financial situation.

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