New Discount Prescription Drug Program for City Residents

There aren't too many certainties in life. Taxes is one. And rising health care costs is another. This is why I am so pleased that the City of Fairfax will soon be providing a discount prescription drug program that not only can save residents up to 20 percent off their medicines, but comes at no cost to the City.

The City will be only the third in the Commonwealth and the only one in Northern Virginia to implement it.

As the Fairfax Connection newspaper wrote this week, the program is offered by the National League of Cities in partnership with CVS/Caremark. The City is able to participate because of its membership with the NLC. And while CVS/Caremark is the primary sponsor, residents can use their benefits at any pharmacy.

Here are some key points about the program:

- This is not insurance and is not meant to be a replacement for insurance
- The card can only be used to pay for medication when insurance isn't available or if someone does not have insurance
- Discounts can save users of the card up to 20 percent and can be used at any participating pharmacy
- The program is at no additional cost to City taxpayers

Starting in late August the City will publicize the program (as will I) and around mid-September people should people able to get the discount cards. Cards will be available at public locations around the City including City Hall, Green Acres and where the City typically has helpful literature and information.

An added benefit of the program is that City residents don't have to really "sign up" for anything. They can simply pick up the cards wherever they are available. While this does technically open it up to non-City residents, it makes it easier for City residents to get the cards when it is convenient for them.

I should note that the City may also be working out some kinks as the program is implemented, but I'm expecting it to go smoothly and be of great benefit to many. Thanks goes to City Manager Bob Sisson and staff for helping to see this program come to light in the City.