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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I use the card?
The OptimumRX Card is accepted at over 56,000 pharmacies
throughout the United States. The network includes pharmacy chains, such as CVS, Duane Reade, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens, Wal-Mart,
and more, as well as thousands of independent pharmacies throughout the country.
Pharmacy location information can be obtained by contacting customer service. If
a neighborhood pharmacy is not already participating in our network, please have
them call us. We will send them information about how then can participate in the
network so that you can take advantage of the savings as soon as possible.
What if my pharmacy doesn't recognize the card?
Pharmacies may not be familiar with
every prescription program in which they participate. If the pharmacist does not
recognize your
OptimumRX Card or if you encounter a problem at the pharmacy,
DO NOT leave without having the pharmacy call the toll-free
number printed on the ID card.
What is my average discount on Non-Preferred Drugs?
Members are currently receiving an
average discount of approximately 25% on brand name drugs,
and up to 70% on generic drugs. There is
no guaranteed percentage savings on every prescription purchase. The price paid
depends upon the pharmacy and the type and quantity of drug purchased. Pharmacies,
just like other retail stores, compete against each other and may have special prices
on some products. When this is the case, we cannot discount the pharmacy's already
low price, but a member will receive the advantage of the pharmacy's special pricing.
THE MEMBER ALWAYS RECEIVES THE LOWER OF THE OPTIMUMRX
CARD CONTRACT PRICE OR THE PHARMACY'S PRICE.
What is a generic drug?
Once a patent on a brand name drug
expires, other drug companies may make a generic version of the drug, with the approval
of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA's standards for quality are the
same for all manufacturers. This means the generic drug contains the same active
ingredients as the brand name whose patent has expired, and that it’s as safe, potent
and effective.
How can I keep my prescription drug costs down?
The use of generic prescription drugs,
whenever available, is most cost effective. Don't be shy - discuss your prescription
options with your doctor. Ask whether an alternative, less expensive option would
work for your condition.
How will I know if there's a generic equivalent available?
Simply ask your local pharmacist
or call
OptimumRX Card 's Customer Service Department at 1-866-333-3000 to find out about generic equivalents
for your prescription. Also ask your doctor to prescribe generics whenever possible
and appropriate. (Your enrollment packet will include helpful materials you can
share with your doctor.)
What is the difference between brand name and generic drugs?
The brand name is
the trade name under which the product is advertised and sold, and is protected
by patents so that it can only be produced by one manufacturer for a pre-determined
number of years. Once a patent expires, other companies my manufacture a generic
equivalent, providing they follow stringent FDA regulations for safety.
Generic drugs are drugs for which
the patent has expired, allowing other manufacturers to produce and distribute the
product under a generic name. Generics are essentially a chemical copy of their
brand-name equivalents. The color or shape may be different, but the active ingredients
must be the same for both. The preferred drug list contains only FDA-approved generic
medications.
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