Washington’s prescription drug discount card saving millions

For Immediate Release: July 10, 2008

Gov. Chris Gregoire encourages all Washingtonians to enroll in free program, reaffirms her commitment to affordable health care

OLYMPIA – Gov. Chris Gregoire today encouraged all Washingtonians to sign up for the state’s innovative and free prescription drug discount program that has helped many citizens save hundreds of dollars on prescription drug costs.

“With gas and food prices at record highs, paying for health care is now an even bigger challenge for Washington families,” Gregoire said. “As anyone who has been sick knows, prescription drugs are one of the biggest costs in getting healthy.”

Since the prescription drug discount card was unveiled in March 2007, more than 82,000 Washingtonians have enrolled and saved roughly $4 million on prescription drug costs. The card is free and available to all Washingtonians no matter their age or income.

Patty Gee, a retiree from Olympia, is a prescription drug discount card holder. “I went to the pharmacist for some eye drops and was nearly in tears,” Gee said. “The cost of that prescription was so expensive. I had to decide whether to buy my eye drops, or my heart medicine. I was relieved when the pharmacist signed me up for the discount card and I could afford both.”

Washington joined with Oregon to increase their buying power by buying prescription drugs in bulk, significantly reducing their price. On average, card users are saving about $23 on every prescription filled. There is no cost to the state.

Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler joined the governor and praised the state’s program. “I applaud the governor and her staff on the tremendous work they have done to make the Washington Prescription Drug Program the success it is,” Kreidler said. “While this program is not insurance, it’s an important tool in helping tens of thousands of seniors, families and other Washingtonians who struggle to pay for the treatment their doctors prescribe.”

Washington’s agreement with Oregon marked the first multi-state effort in the nation aimed at providing discounts for uninsured or underinsured citizens. More than a dozen states offer prescription drug discount card programs, but according to AARP, none offers discounts as steep as the Washington and Oregon programs.

“We know seniors continue to choose between eating and taking their prescriptions,” Gregoire said. “Many of these folks live on less than $600 a month. Spending even $50 a month for prescription drugs can be impossible. The federal government should address this disgraceful situation. Until it does, we will.”

The governor also affirmed her commitment to keeping prescription drugs affordable for low-income seniors and disabled. She mentioned the state’s subsidized co-pays for prescription drugs for all Washington residents enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare. Since January 2006, the state has paid $13.3 million, which provides relief to approximately 220,000 seniors every month.