Written by:
Arthi Vendan
Navigating the expenses of prescription medicines can be a financial challenge. The need for these essential medications is undeniable, but the costs can often weigh heavily on your wallet. In light of this, it becomes crucial to adopt strategic approaches that not only ensure you get the medications you need but also ease the financial burdens associated with them. Let’s explore practical and effective methods to make managing prescription medicine costs more manageable and sustainable:
Mail Order or Online Pharmacies:
Explore mail-order pharmacies for long-term medications, often offering a 90-day supply with potential cost savings. Ensure your health insurance plan covers online pharmacy services for cost savings.
Online pharmacies like Apollo Pharmacy, PharmEasy, MedPlus Mart, Netmeds or 1mg, often offer discounts and deliver medications to your doorstep.
Discount Programs and Assistance:
Some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs, providing discount cards or low-cost medicines. Check eligibility criteria and apply for programs based on your medications and financial situation.
Pharmaceuticals like 1mg, Novartis, Blue Tree Program by Roche Pharma, Sparsh by Dr Reddy’s, Pfizer PAP India by Pfizer, and MrMed extend assistance programs based on your medications, income, and health needs.
Additionally, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India provides quality medicines at affordable prices through special kendras known as Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra.
Use Medicines Wisely:
Follow your medication schedule diligently to avoid health issues and unnecessary expenses. Stay informed about your medications with apps like MedPlus Mart, Apollo Pharmacy, 1mg and PharmEasy, which provide information on dosage, side effects, and interactions.
Maintain open communication with your pharmacist and healthcare provider about your medications, including any over-the-counter or herbal supplements.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage:
Post-hospitalization, your health insurance may cover medications for an extended period. Health insurance policies like Niva Bupa, ICICI Prudential, Acko, Star Health Insurance and the Indian Government’s Aayushman Bharat can cover your meds up to 60, 90, or 180 days.
Many insurance plans offer reimbursement options for the medications you’ve purchased. Keep those bills handy, understand the reimbursement process. Additionally, some health insurance providers have tie-ups with specific pharmacies, and insured individuals may get additional benefits or discounts when purchasing medications from these network pharmacies.
Reach out to your insurer to understand the coverage and reimbursement options. Inquire about the duration and extent of coverage for prescription medicines.
Shopping Smartly:
Before making any purchase, consult your healthcare provider to understand the prescribed duration and dosage. This insight helps in accurately estimating the quantity required.
Platforms like 1mg and PharmEasy offer detailed information on medication usage, including recommended durations. Opt for these resources to gain clarity on the appropriate quantity needed for your intended duration, reducing the risk of excess and waste.
Prescription management apps like PharmEasy not only facilitate medicine purchases but also provide insights into your prescription, including duration. Leverage these apps to maintain a digital record of your prescriptions, enabling you to make informed decisions about quantity.
Stay Connected with Your Pharmacy:
Regular communication with your chosen pharmacy can unlock additional benefits.
Many pharmacies, both online and offline, like Apollo Pharmacy or MedPlus, have loyalty programs for regular customers. Accumulate points with each purchase, leading to discounts, cashback, or exclusive deals.
Pharmacies may provide discounts when you buy medications in larger quantities. Enquire with your local pharmacy or explore online platforms with bulk purchase options. Save on the overall cost per unit by purchasing a larger supply of your regular medications.
Pharmacies frequently run promotions or tie-ups with healthcare brands, leading to additional discounts. Stay updated with online pharmacy apps or subscribe to newsletters for promotional alerts. Take advantage of seasonal discounts, festive offers, or partnerships that can significantly reduce your medication expenses.
Many pharmacies have dedicated apps with exclusive discounts for app users. Download and explore pharmacy apps like PharmEasy or Practo and unlock app-specific discounts, cashback, or special offers that might not be available through other channels.
Remember, staying informed about available resources and fostering open communication with healthcare professionals can significantly alleviate the financial strain associated with prescription medications.
Please note: This article is for information purposes only and don’t replace professional medical guidance. Health decisions should be made in consultation with qualified medical experts who can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances and needs.
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
