If you, like me, have signed up for MAH’s new health care plan, you are probably going through some adjustment pains adapting to the new plan.
The new plan does not have the co-pays that we have all become accustomed to, so now we need to begin using our bargain hunting skills in the medical marketplace.
I recently needed refills for a couple of prescriptions that last year had cost me about $35 per month. I was prepared for an increase, since the plan has a higher deductible than previous, but was frankly surprised at the full cost.
Here are a few suggestions to help deal with these costs:
1) Check with national pharmacies to see if your medication is on their $4 formulary list.
Walmart and Kroger have such lists. It may also pay to make sure your doctor knows that you are on a high deductible plan, so he or she can prescribe medications that are on the list. (Unfortunately, neither of my prescriptions are on the list – I plan to discuss this with my doctor the next time I see him).
2) Check the website of the drug manufacturer.
In my case, I take Lipitor to manage cholesterol. At http://www.lipitor.com:80/offers/index.aspx there are offers for a 30 Day free trial and a Co-pay card that is worth $15 each month for a total of $180 a year.
Health and pharmacy costs are constantly increasing, but if we take some simple steps, we can manage our personal situation to minimize the increases.
Keith Walls, CFO
