The New York State Department of Health is accepting applications for its new, free New York Prescription $aver Card. This program will offer participants significant discounts on thousands of prescription medications, providing savings of more than 60 percent on generic drugs and 30 percent on brand name drugs.
We need to make sure everyone has access to the healthcare they need, and making prescription drugs more affordable is a critical part of the plan. Drug prices can be outrageous and if you need a certain medication but can’t afford it, you’re put in a terrible and potentially life-threatening spot. We need to make sure people can afford their meds so they can manage their health and live long, healthy, productive lives.
The Prescription $aver Card program, which the Assembly helped pass last year, will serve low-income New Yorkers who are disabled or are between the ages of 50 and 64. To be eligible for the benefit, the annual income must be $35,000 or less for single individuals or $50,000 or less for married individuals. Please note that Medicaid recipients or those enrolled in the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program are not eligible for the Prescription $aver Card.
The Prescription $aver Card program is a significant step forward in helping people afford their health care. More than 2,500 pharmacies throughout the state will participate in the program, including small, independent pharmacies and large chains, as well as many drug manufacturers. As participation grows, it will save people thousands of dollars a year in prescription costs. The savings will be truly meaningful to those who need it most.
This is part of the Assembly Majority’s longstanding commitment to lowering prescription drug costs for New Yorkers. I will continue looking for new and better ways to make lifesaving medications more affordable.
To learn more about the Prescription $aver Card program or to apply, visit http://nyprescriptionsaver.fhsc.com or call 800-788-6917. TTY users should call 800-290-9138. Applications are also available at pharmacies.