FamilyWize saves $1M on prescription drugs

ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WANE)  The FamilyWize prescription drug discount program has saved local residents over $1 million since it was introduced five and a half years ago.

According to Allen County Commissioners, from the program’s introduction in Allen County through November of last year, the cards have been used more than 61,000 times, adding up to $1,021,227 in savings. The average savings is about 31 percent.

United Way of Allen County began offering the program to residents in March of 2007 through its member agencies. In April 2008, the Allen County Commissioners’ office teamed up with United Way to help publicize the program and distribute cards in the community.

“United Way is proud to be a part of the FamilyWize program and its incredible savings to people in our community,” said Todd Stephenson, president and CEO of United Way of Allen County. “With health being one of our focus areas, the FamilyWize program is an exemplary resource for individuals and families in Allen County to help lead healthier lives.”

“$1 million in savings is significant. When one out of every four people has trouble buying their medicine, we’re looking for every way possible to make sure every person in our community gets the free help provided by these cards,” added Commissioner Therese Brown.

“This collaboration involving Allen County, United Way, FamilyWize and local pharmacies is a wonderful example of public-private partnership serving the common good," said Dan Barnes, CEO and Founder of FamilyWize. "It is very gratifying to be able to deliver immediate relief to people whose pressing needs reflect one of our country’s most urgent priorities: providing access to affordable healthcare.”

FamilyWize cards are primarily for people with no health insurance or prescription coverage. However, they can also be used when people have to buy medicine not covered by their health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare or VA benefits. There are no income qualifications or eligibility requirements to use the card. Users take the card to their pharmacy and ask for the discount.

In a new development for 2013, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne has agreed to help distribute FamilyWize cards through its four Allen County facilities and its Childcare Services Branch. The cards are also available at the Associated Churches of Fort Wayne’s 28 food banks as well as a variety of local partner agencies, municipal and county agencies and departments. In addition, you can print a card, look up drug prices and find a list of participating pharmacies by going to clicking here.