A new prescription drug program for uninsured residents New Jersey was announced on Monday, providing discounts of over 50 percent for prescription medications. The program was designed by the Medical Society of New Jersey and the state’s largest HMO, QualCare, Inc.
Doctors who are members of the Medical Society or QualCare can hand out discount cards for any patient without insurance. All together, that makes up about 80 percent of the doctors practicing in New Jersey, reported the Associated Press and the Houston Chronicle.
The card will offer drug discounts in as many as 50,000 pharmacies around the country.
“Our physicians have been asking for our help in providing more affordable access for their neediest patients, and this unique partnership allows us to do just that, ” said the Medical Society’s president, Dr. Richard Scott.
New Jersey (and Wisconsin) aren’t the only states offering residents more affordable prescription drugs.
West Virginia is also rolling out a program to help people get medication at affordable prices. Governor Joe Manchin recently introduced West Virginia Rx, a program providing low-income residents with a free prescription drug mail service.
Residents who are uninsured and earn less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level qualify for the program, reported the Charleston Gazette.
The program won’t just help give more people access to needed medications — state officials believe it will have a positive impact on overall health care.
“If we can improve efficiency, that’s a good step, ” said state Delegate Don Perdue.