Member: I’m having trouble affording the medications I need. Is there anything I can do to bring my costs down or find alternatives? —Judy, Richfield
Anita: This is an important topic, as accessing and taking the medications your doctor prescribes is essential for your health and well-being. We want to make this process as simple and affordable as possible for members.
First, make sure you are using an in-network pharmacy, as you will pay less for medications there than at a pharmacy that is not in your network. For some plans, using an in-network pharmacy is required.
Look on the back of your member ID card to find your pharmacy network name, then search for a location near you by using the search tool here. Or, you can call the number on the back of your member ID card.
If you have a Choice or Complete Medicare Advantage plan, you will want to be sure you are using a “preferred” pharmacy, which can also help you save on medications.
Another good way to save on prescriptions and make getting them less of a hassle is to sign up for 90-day refills and mail delivery. You will need to talk to your doctor about getting the larger prescription and to your pharmacy to make sure it offers 90-day medications and mail delivery.
Also, you might be eligible for programs that can save you money on medications. One example is Medicare’s Extra Help program, which pays prescription drug costs for people who have limited income and resources. To find out whether you qualify, contact 800-633-4227 (TTY users should call 877-486-2048).
My final recommendation would be to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about lower-cost generic medicines. Oftentimes a generic medication will perform the same as a brand-name drug. It’s important to remember to take your medications as directed.
FOR MEDICARE ADVANTAGE AND PLATINUM BLUE PLANS ONLY:
For more information about filling your prescriptions by mail, contact our mail-order service, AllianceRx Walgreens Prime, at 855-457-0227 or visit alliancerxwp.com.