Eleven major drug manufacturers unveiled a new discount card yesterday that could help millions of uninsured Americans save money on prescription drugs.
The Together Rx Access Card program allows those who meet income and age requirements to save 25 to 40 percent -- and sometimes more -- on more than 275 brand-name prescription drugs and a host of generic drugs.
It's the latest in a trend by drugmakers to offer their own discount cards for those without health care coverage who struggle to pay skyrocketing drug prices.
"It's free to get, it's free to use and the savings are real," said Roba Whiteley, executive director of Together Rx Access.
"The companies in Together Rx Access have stepped forward because they all feel it's the right thing to do and they are able to do it."
Whiteley said the benefits could cover 80 percent of the 45 million Americans who are uninsured and don't carry prescription drug coverage.
Consumer groups have called similar discount cards a way for drug companies, rather than the government, to control who saves money and how much is saved.
"It's a positive step, but at the same time, it strongly underscores the need for governmental action to expand coverage for the uninsured," said Ron Pollack, executive director of consumer group FamiliesUSA.
Those who qualify for the new program can enroll by visiting the Web site, www.TogetherRxAccess.com, or by calling 800-444-4106.
Enrollment forms will be available at participating pharmacies and doctors' offices.
Companies participating in the program are Abbott Laboratories Inc.; AstraZeneca PLC; Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.; GlaxoSmithKline PLC; Janssen Pharmaceutica Products LP and Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical Inc., part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies; Novartis AG; Pfizer Inc.; Sanofi Aventis Group SA; Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America Inc.; and TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc.