Prescription Resources
If you're seeking prescription assistance in Albuquerque, New Mexico, several programs are available to help reduce medication costs:
1. New Mexico Drug Card
This is a free statewide prescription assistance program designed to help uninsured and underinsured residents afford their medications. The card provides discounts on both brand-name and generic prescriptions, with average savings of approximately 30%. There are no income requirements, age limitations, or applications to fill out. Residents can download a free card by visiting the New Mexico Drug Card website.
2. New Mexico MEDBANK Program
The MEDBANK Program assists individuals of any age who reside in New Mexico and lack prescription drug coverage or have exhausted their benefits. It automates the application process required to obtain medications through pharmaceutical companies' Patient Assistance Programs. For more information, visit the New Mexico Prescription Drug Assistance / Medbank page.
3. UNM Health Financial Assistance
The University of New Mexico Health System offers financial assistance programs for services provided at UNM Hospitals and Clinics. These programs can help cover the cost of prescriptions for qualified patients. To determine eligibility and apply, contact a patient financial services representative at (505) 272-2521 or visit the UNM Health Financial Assistance page.
4. State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Administered by the New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department, SHIP provides free, unbiased health insurance information, counseling, and assistance to residents. SHIP counselors can help individuals navigate Medicare and other health insurance options, potentially reducing prescription costs. To speak with a SHIP counselor, call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 1-800-432-2080 or visit the SHIP page.
5. YES New Mexico (YesNM)
YesNM is an online portal where residents can apply for various public assistance programs, including Medical Assistance (Medicaid), which may cover prescription costs. To apply or check your benefits, visit the YesNM website.
GoodRx
Overview:
GoodRx provides prescription discounts to help consumers save money on medications. It aggregates prices from pharmacies nationwide and offers coupons for significant savings.Key Features:
- Free to use.
- Compare prices for medications across local pharmacies.
- Offers a free discount card and app.
- Works without insurance, but can be used alongside insurance to see if savings are greater.
How It Works:
- Search for your medication on the GoodRx website or app.
- Compare prices and find the best deal.
- Download or print a coupon and present it at the pharmacy.
Contact Information:
- Website: goodrx.com
- Phone: 1-855-268-2822
- App: Available on iOS and Android.
Additional Notes:
- GoodRx Gold subscription plan offers even deeper discounts on medications for a monthly fee.
- Accepted at major pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.
NeedyMeds
Overview:
NeedyMeds is a national nonprofit organization that connects people with programs to help them afford medications and healthcare.Key Features:
- Provides information on Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs).
- Offers a free discount card for medications.
- Lists free/low-cost clinics and other resources for medical and mental health support.
- Includes a comprehensive database of drug discount programs.
How It Works:
- Visit the NeedyMeds website to search for assistance programs by drug name or healthcare need.
- Download and print the NeedyMeds drug discount card.
- Present the card at participating pharmacies to receive discounts.
Contact Information:
- Website: needymeds.org
- Phone: 1-800-503-6897
- Email: info@needymeds.org
- Address: PO Box 219, Gloucester, MA 01931
Additional Notes:
- NeedyMeds does not provide medications directly but connects users to programs that do.
- Free clinics and telemedicine programs are also listed on their site.