Wake County Launches Prescription Drug Discount Card

10/1/2007

Wake County today launched a discount card program to help consumers cope with the high price of prescription drugs. The county is making free prescription drug discount cards available to all citizens as part of the National Association of Counties (NACo) Prescription Drug Discount Card Program.

"This is a great program for everyone," said Wake County Commissioners’ Chair Tony Gurley. "Some people have to make choices between fulfilling their basic needs and purchasing prescription drugs that may save their lives or improve their health. We are pleased to be able to assist not only the uninsured and underinsured, but also those whose health insurance does not cover all of their prescription needs."

Starting today, NACo Prescription Drug Discount Cards will be available at Wake County government buildings including libraries and human services centers. It is also available at most pharmacies. The card may be used by all county residents, regardless of age, income or existing health coverage. Consumers will save an average of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs at retail locations, and are eligible for higher discounts on a three-month supply of some medications through mail service.

"One of the best things about the NACo Prescription Drug Discount Card Program is its simplicity," said Gurley. "The only thing people have to do is pick up the card and take it with them to the pharmacy. They do not have to worry about paperwork or registration, and they only have to keep up with one card for the entire family."

A national network of more than 57,000 participating retail pharmacies will honor the NACo prescription discount card, which includes almost every pharmacy in Wake County. Answers to frequently asked questions and a list of participating pharmacies are available online at www.wakegov.com/naco or by calling 1-877-321-2652.

The discount card program is administered by Caremark Rx, Inc., and is offered at no cost to county taxpayers. Caremark negotiates with pharmacies to offer a discount off retail prescription prices because it draws customers to their stores.

The National Association of Counties (NACo) is the only national organization that represents county governments in the United States. Founded in 1935, NACo provides essential services to the nation’s 3,066 counties. For more information about NACo, visit www.naco.org.

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