February 14, 2006

Consumers continue to have online access to state pricing information for commonly prescribed prescription drugs, making decision-making and shopping easier via the Michigan Department of Community Health’s Common Retail Drug Pricing in Michigan web page.

Through the web page, found at www.michigan.gov/mdch, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) provides consumers with the average prices for the top 25 most commonly used prescription drugs in Michigan, as reported to the state by First Health Services Corporation. The prices featured on the site represent the usual and customary costs for a one month supply of the prescription drugs, and are comparable to what a cash-paying customer without insurance would pay.

The web site also contains links to three commonly used discount programs for prescription drugs: the Michigan Prescription Drug Discount Card (MI-Rx), the national Together Rx Access Card, and the Michigan Partnership for Prescription Assistance program.

“Information has been presented to Michigan consumers on this web site since May 2005 in a very useful format and in a responsible – and ultimately safe – way,” said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “We want the citizens of Michigan to have access to this information so they can make informed decisions about the much-needed prescription drugs they require.”

Olszewski said prescription drug prices change daily. The website provides a way for consumers to compare the retail price from that of their frequently used pharmacy to others that may offer cheaper prescription drugs.

It is always a good practice for consumers to buy all of their medications from the same pharmacy so that a pharmacist can keep track of the medications they are taking in order to avoid potentially harmful interactions, she said. If you do decide to shop at more than one pharmacy, be sure that you tell the pharmacists all of the drugs you are taking.

Michigan continues to be a leader in providing assistance with the cost of prescription drugs. Since the state’s MI-Rx card debuted in September 2004, more than 33,000 uninsured Michigan citizens have taken advantage of the program.