Saving Money on Your Prescriptions

In order to produce the podcast and keep content up free for you, I work with partners so this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure for more info.

Whenever I get a money question from you guys, I try my best to give some practical solution.

Recently I got a money question, from someone having a hard time with medical expenses.

What she is paying out of pocket for her prescriptions right now is killing her already tight budget.

If you're in the same boat, here are some ways you can lower your prescription costs.

Talk with Your Physician

I think the first step you should take is talking with your doctor(s) over your financial situation.

I know that it may uncomfortable or embarrassing, but part of your doctor's responsibility is helping you get the care you need.

If you can afford your medicine, you're more likely to not stay on your regimen which can be more serious complications down the line.

Your doctor may be able to offer solutions that you would have a hard time finding on your own. If you don't want to make an appointment, go ahead and ask for the doctor to have a phone consultation with you.

Go Generic (if Possible)

Some pharmacies, like Wal-Mart's $4 prescriptions,  have programs that offer low-cost generic medications that can significantly lower your costs.

Talk it over with your physician and see if generics are the way to go.

There are times you can make the switch and not see a difference, other times, your physician will recommend sticking with your brand name medication (that doesn't mean you can't still save, see below).

Shop Around for the Best Price

Speaking of pharmacies, prices can vary place to place so shopping around can be rewarding.

GoodRx has an app that can do the search quickly and easily for you. It can also find coupons for you which is a nice bonus.

Kiplinger's included GoodRx as one of their top money savings apps. It's free and it is available for both Android and Apple phones.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance(PPA)

PPA helps qualifying individuals get the medicines they need by searching for patient assistance programs.

You can call them or go to their site and give them a list of the medications you need help with. They do not charge for this service.

Thoughts on Prescription Medicine Discounts

I really hope this helps you or a loved one save money on your medication. Please feel free to share this post with anyone who could use it.

For those who have gone through this situation, what helped you?

Photo Credit: StockMoney.com