Drug discount card saves money for underinsured county residents

Goshen — Orange County residents have saved more than $200,000 since the launch five months ago of a new discount prescription drug card program. ProAct Prescription Drug Discount Cards are available for free free to all county residents. Since the start of the program in June, residents have filled more than 5,700 prescriptions, saving an average of 44 percent, or $35.51, according to the county executive's office. The county teamed up with ProAct to ease the financial burden that many uninsured and underinsured residents experience when buying prescriptions. The program also offers discounts on vision, hearing, and LASIK services. There are no prerequisites to take advantage of this program. Residents simply present the discount card at any participating pharmacy. For a list of participating pharmacies, visit www.NYRxDiscountCard.com. To print a copy of the card, visit the ProAct Web site at www.NYRxDiscountCard.com, or obtain a card from the county department of health (124 Main St., Goshen) or social services office (11 Quarry Rd., Goshen). The program has been endorsed by 46 counties across the state. These counties have jointly filled more than 2.3 million prescriptions and saved nearly $70 million collectively. “It’s a travesty that the high cost of prescription medications has put them out of reach for many who are uninsured or underinsured,” said Orange County Executive Edward Diana. “Those in need are now able to enjoy some financial relief at the pharmacy counter and get the medications they require to protect their health and well-being. Best of all, the prescription discount program is available at no cost to the county or the residents who use it." ProAct is a pharmacy benefit management company based in central New York and a division of Kinney Drugs.