Special Voices Web Report
By Justin Eisinger

Pennsylvania citizens now have access to a free prescription drug card that will provide an average of 30 percent (and as high as 75 percent) savings on prescription drugs not covered by insurance. The card can be downloaded at www.padrugcard.com, by entering your name (even the e-mail address is optional).

There are no age or income restrictions. The card, once printed, is pre-activated and can be used immediately, making it an easy alternative to past programs that required applications, presented restrictions, and did not cover such a wide range of medication. The card is available to every Pennsylvania citizen, regardless if they are covered by Medicaid or Medicare, or whether they receive their medication through (?) a charity provider, according to a press release from the PA Drug Card program.

"The people of Pennsylvania need a program like this to help offset rising prescription drug costs," states PA Drug Card Program Director, Kerry Shaw. "This program couldn't have come at a better time as the struggling economy continues to leave more people without jobs and benefits."

The card, created to aid uninsured Pennsylvania citizens, as well as citizens whose insurance doesn’t cover certain medications, is administered through United Networks of America.

"We encourage all residents to take advantage of the opportunity to help offset the rising prices of prescription drugs purchased in Pennsylvania," said Mark Schweiker, President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and former governor of Pennsylvania. "The Pennsylvania Drug Card is easy to use and has no eligibility restrictions. Whether you work for a company, or you are self- employed, or not employed, this card may save you money on your prescription medications."

The card works at more than 50,000 national and regional pharmacies, including Target Pharmacy, K-mart Pharmacy, Weis Pharmacy, and CVS/pharmacy. Most locations, including Target and K-mart, can even provide the prescription through the Pennsylvania Drug Card even for those citizens who can’t access the Web site.

Sources: www.padrugcard.com , http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/081218/ph53416.html?.v=1