Where to find cheapest prescriptions?

[shelly3girls]

We are switching health plans to an HSA next year. In the long run it will save us money even though we have to pay all costs up to the first $6400. I never had to think about prescription costs b/c I always just had a copay. Where can I find the cheapest prices for prescriptions? We have a Target, CVS, and RiteAid nearby. Walmart is a far drive so it would really have to be cheaper to make it worth it. Also, DD is on several name brand drugs as there is either no generic or the generic didn't work for her meds.

 

[VirataMama4]

Call around to each and every one of them! When you do, have a list of the meds with you and just ask them to check the prices of each one. You may end up with a couple cheaper at CVS and some different ones cheaper at Target.

 

[3boymthr]

Be sure check with your medical carrier before purchasing anywhere just because it's cheapest. Even though it's an HSA and initially you have to cover all the costs up front you want to be prepared for when they do start covering the cost. Because they may not cover prescriptions purchased at certain pharmacies and in addition, depending upon the wording of the plan document they also may not apply the drugs purchased at non-network pharmacies to your deductible. I say this because I'm underwriting a plan right now where that's the case for the HSA. Also, make sure that the drug you are purchasing is covered by the insurance carriers drug formulary. If it's not they won't apply it to your deductible.

Also, just because it's an HSA, when calling around don't skip handing over your insurance card and make sure that you do mention that you have insurance but that you have a deductible. Most insurance carriers have a discount arrangement with prescription carriers as well as doctors (thus the paragraph above). You should benefit from the discount negotiated by your insurance carrier even though the drug is going to your deductible.

That said don't forget to check your grocery store, places like costco and BJ's and online. There are many legitimate pharmacies that are online (drugstore.com, cvs.com, walmart.com, etc.) They will price your drug for you online and ship it to you. They have quantities up to 90 days available and usually at a cheaper price than a local pharmacy.

 

[springandmac]

I have a HSA and I get my maintenance prescriptions at Costco.com but you really have to call around for the best deal. I had a prescription filled at Kroger one month & it was $35. The next month I had it filled at Walmart and it was $9.

 

[shelly3girls]

Thank you for the information! I will definitely call around. Unfortunately, three of her meds are non-formulary and the doctor feels strongly about her staying on them. We have seen such an improvement in her health on them that we are just going to have to pay for them and not think about it.