Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
The cost of skipping medications extends beyond immediate health risks to broader financial implications for patients and the healthcare system. This nonadherence costs the healthcare industry $300 billion annually. The following information will highlight the health risks and economic consequences of not taking prescribed medications due to cost barriers and show how a prescription discount card can help solve this problem.
Why Do People Skip Medications?
Medication nonadherence is a serious issue, with only 25 to 30 percent of people taking their prescriptions correctly. Among various reasons for skipping medications include people forgetting doses, suffering from side effects, stopping taking drugs when they feel better, or simply not being able to afford them. Cost is the biggest hurdle— many Americans worry about insufficient money for future refills, prompting them to ration their medications or skip doses altogether.
What are The Dangers of Not Taking Your Medications?
Skipping medications poses health risks that are not just a matter of inconvenience; it can trigger severe complications like heart attacks, strokes, and other critical health crises, sometimes necessitating immediate medical intervention. Shockingly, statistics reveal that 30 to 50 percent of chronic disease treatment failures and a staggering 125,000 deaths every year stem from medication nonadherence. Moreover, attempting to cut medication costs may backfire, leading to even higher out-of-pocket expenses from unplanned emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Take your health seriously; adherence is critical.
What Are My Options to Avoid Missing Medications?
Generic Medications: Ask your doctor if there are generic versions of your prescribed medications, which are often cheaper than brand-name drugs.
Prescription Assistance Programs: Look into programs offered by pharmaceutical companies, non-profits, or government agencies that provide medications at a reduced cost or for free.
Discount Cards and Coupons: Use the prescription discount cards or coupons found on RxLess, which can significantly reduce the cost of medications at participating pharmacies.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance that covers prescription medications. Review your plan annually to make sure it meets your needs.
Community Health Centers: Visit community health centers or clinics that offer medications at a sliding scale based on income.
Bulk Purchasing: If possible, buy medications in bulk. A 90-day supply is often cheaper per dose than a 30-day supply.
Financial Assistance Programs: Apply for financial assistance programs specifically designed for low-income individuals.
Consult Your Doctor: Talk to your doctor about your financial constraints. They may be able to prescribe a less expensive alternative or provide samples.
How Do Prescription Discount Cards and Coupons Help?
The prescription discount cards and coupons found on Rxless ensure you don't miss out on vital medications. Imagine having access to reduced prices negotiated directly with pharmacies, making your essential medications much more affordable. With these cards and coupons, you can stick to your treatment plan without worrying about the financial burden. This is especially beneficial if uninsured or underinsured, providing a practical solution to manage medication expenses effectively.
Imagine you earn $2,500 a month and spend $200 on prescriptions for omeprazole (Prilosec), amlodipine (Norvasc), and lisinopril (Zestril). To cover other expenses, you might be tempted to take your medications every other day instead of daily or worse, skip them completely, risking severe health complications and higher costs in the long run.
Instead of endangering your health, use RxLess to save up to 88% on your medications. By visiting rxless.com, you can locate pharmacies where your medications cost less and fill the same quantity for about $25 instead of $200. This way, you can afford your medications and follow your doctor’s prescription without breaking the bank.
