Prescription savings available

In times of economic hardship like we’re in now, it’s important to save money wherever you can. If you or someone you know doesn’t have prescription drug coverage, the costs can be crippling. Since 2006, Milwaukee County has offered free prescription drug discount cards that provide 20- to 50-percent savings to all Milwaukee County residents with no prescription drug coverage.

Since the program was started, residents have saved more than $426,000 in prescription drug costs, for an average savings of more than 22 percent. There are currently more than 1,000 Milwaukee County residents taking advantage of this program, with that number growing every day. Even people with prescription drug insurance coverage can get the discount if they have a particular drug that is not covered under their policy. There are also some individuals who have been able to use the discount card on prescriptions for their pets. 

No enrollment forms or membership fees are required. Regardless of age or income, any Milwaukee County resident without prescription drug coverage can receive the discount by simply showing the card at any participating pharmacy or by calling a toll-free number. To obtain a card, Milwaukee County residents can contact me at 278-4252 and simply ask for one.

While residents can save 20 percent at the pharmacy, even bigger savings can be realized through a mail-order service. This program will deliver three-month supplies of certain medications to you for 50 percent off the retail price.

Special thanks go to my predecessor, former County Supervisor Richard Nyklewicz, who took the initiative to offer this program to Milwaukee County residents in 2006.

If you or someone you know doesn’t have prescription coverage, please pass this important information on to them.

Chris Larson is supervisor of Milwaukee County’s 14th District, which encompasses southern parts of Bay View, the airport, and other parts of Milwaukee’s southeast side. He can be reached at chris.larson@milwcnty.com or (414) 278-4252.