Six Ways to Save on Prescriptions

Photo of stethoscope and money

If you take prescription medications, you’re not alone. Many adults take at least one prescription medication, but it’s not uncommon for some older adults to be on five or more medications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Prescription medication expenses can add up quickly, so here are six tips to help you save money with your STRS Ohio prescription coverage.

  1. Ask for generics.

    You will pay less for generic drugs, so ask if a generic is available. Also check the low-cost generic drug list. You can receive a 90-day supply of some of the most commonly prescribed generics for only $9 through the CVS Caremark Mail Service Pharmacy.

  2. Check your list of covered medications.

    If a generic is not available, you can still save money by using brand-name drugs covered by your plan. To find out if a drug is covered, log in to your CVS account or call SilverScript or CVS Caremark. You can also check the SilverScript Formulary (Medicare) or CVS Caremark Performance Drug List (non-Medicare).

  3. Ask about lower cost alternatives.

    If your doctor prescribes a drug that is not covered by your plan, ask about potential lower cost alternatives.

  4. Use network retail pharmacies.

    You can save money by using a CVS network pharmacy. To check the network status of a pharmacy, visit the CVS website or call SilverScript (Medicare) or CVS Caremark (non-Medicare). You can also receive a 90-day supply of medication at any CVS Pharmacy, Longs Drugs or Navarro Discount Pharmacy for the same price as mail service. Low-Cost Generic Drug Program medications are included.

  5. Choose home delivery for long-term medications.

    If you’re taking a long-term medication, you can save money by using the CVS Caremark Mail Service Pharmacy. Mail service offers a 90-day supply of medication for a lower copayment than three fills at retail.

  6. Shop around.

    Many retail pharmacies offer discount drug programs, so it pays to shop around. Remember, if the cost of the drug is less than your prescription plan copayment, you pay the lower amount.

For more information about your prescription coverage, log in to your CVS account at www.caremark.com or call SilverScript toll-free at 800-756-6859 (Medicare) or CVS Caremark toll-free at 800-756-6841 (non-Medicare).