County Discount Card For Rx

The News Reporter Columbus County has rolled out a free prescription discount card that any resident can use to save money at all pharmacies in the county. The cards do not require participants to fill out forms or commit to a contract and may be used regardless of age, income and existing coverage. “It’s mainly going to benefit the uninsured or the under-insured,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Kip Godwin. “But anyone can use it.” Offered by the mail-order pharmacy Caremark Rx, the program is sponsored by the National Association of Counties and offers an average discount of 20 percent on prescription medications. Godwin said that residents who have prescription drug insurance policies could still benefit from the program. Drugs not covered by co-pays or insurance policies are often available at a discount, using the card. Discount cards are available at all county departments and senior centers, libraries and Columbus Regional Healthcare System. Caremark makes its money from a transaction fee charged to pharmacies and from splitting rebates from drug makers with pharmacies. Caremark also operates a mail-order pharmacy. In exchange for participating in the discount program, Columbus County has agreed to not actively promote another discount program for three years.