subject: How to Save on your Prescription Programs [print this page] Prescription drug use does not necessarily lead to addiction if individuals are knowledgeable about the prescription programs recommended by their doctors. Actually, following doctor prescribed prescription programs can lead to a healthier and longer life.Affordable Health Care is Possible with Medical Discount Card MembershipThe elderly are not the only individuals who benefit from using prescription drugs. In a survey conducted in 2004, it was discovered that 1/5 of the medical costs incurred by individuals under age 65 were for prescription drugs alone. A report from the American Heart Association indicated that over 32 million Americans take 3 or more prescription drugs daily.If prescription medications are a necessity for your proper health care, a discount medical card membership is an assurance that you can afford the medicine you need.A discount medical card membership can save members 15% on name brand prescription medications. A discount health card can save you 50% or more on generic prescription medications.Prescription programs using a discount medical card can save you money at over 48,000 pharmacies across the country, including drugstores such as Rite Aid, Target, and CVS Pharmacy. If the drug discount card is not accepted at a pharmacy in your area, you can still save by using pharmacy mail order services for your prescription programs.Tip #1 - Maintain RecordsIt is important to maintain records on all prescription medications. Overdoses can be dangerous or even fatal, and under dosages will not provide the necessary health benefits.Keep records of each prescription drug including the name brand or generic name of the medicine. Familiarize yourself with the dosage instructions and requirements. If medications are administered by multiple individuals, it is important to determine who is responsible for each particular dosage.Tip #2 - Read the InstructionsIt is important to read the labels on all prescription medicines. If you have questions regarding a particular medication, contact the pharmacy or your physician. Many problems can be prevented by simply asking a question.Tip #3 - Side Effect MonitoringIndividuals on prescription programs should carefully monitor the occurrence of any symptoms or side effects, especially if taking a newly prescribed medication. All unusual side effects and symptoms should be reported to your health caregiver.Tip #4 - Drug Expiration DatesPrescription medications have expiration dates. It is important to monitor these dates. An expired prescription drug may not have the required potency to perform its intended task which can be dangerous in many instances.Tip #5 - Continued MedicationIt is not uncommon to start feeling some symptom relief when you start taking a prescribed medication. However, continuing to take the medication as prescribed is important so the problem does not reoccur.Remember that savings for your prescription drug medications is available through healthcare discount cards that can save you up to 15% on brand name drugs and 50% or more on generic medications. If you are struggling to pay for your medications, a discount medical card is a solution that can help you afford prescription drugs.
