Union County Introduces Prescription Discount Card

Union County residents can now receive discounts of up to 75 percent on prescription medication, regardless of age, income or medical plan, under a new health program introduced by the Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Announced via press release last week, "The Union County Wellness Discount Program," does not include restrictions, fees or waiting periods, and it does not require program participants to fill-out enrollment forms or claim forms.

"In these tough economic times, we felt it was important to ensure that all Union County residents have more opportunities to save money on health care," Board of Chosen Freeholders Chairman Daniel P. Sullivan said in the press release. "As soon as we heard about this program, we knew it was right for Union County."

The program was designed to assist Union County residents who have no health insurance plan, according to the release, and to assist residents who have health plans that provide little or no prescription drug coverage. All Union County residents, however, can receive a minimum savings of 10 percent on prescription drugs, and up to 75 percent savings on certain medications.

The average savings is about 30 percent, the release stated. Discounts are also available on hearing aids, dental care, pet medications, diabetes supplies, and eye care. The program includes pre-existing conditions, and persons with other plans including Medicare Part D or high deductible plans can still participate.

The Union County Wellness Program is a discount program, not a form of health insurance, the press release stipulated. When the discount card is presented to a participating pharmacy, the cardholder receives the best discount available based on average wholesale prices, in-store promotions or any other available discount.  Major pharmacies in Union County are participating, along with thousands throughout New Jersey and the U.S.

To participate, simply download free membership cards by following the instructions on the Union County website at www.ucnj.org/wellnessdiscount. Persons without Internet access can request a card by mail by leaving a phone message with their name and address or phone number at The Union County Wellness Program, 908-527-4750. Persons with questions about the program may also leave their phone number in order to receive a call back.

Each participant needs to have his or her own card, the release stated, but one person can download cards for family members, friends, co-workers and organizations. Employers can download cards for their employees, and health care professionals can download cards for their patients.

"Access to health care should be simple and affordable for all, so the Wellness Program is definitely a step in the right direction," Freeholder Vice Chairman Deborah P. Scanlon said in the release. "I'd like to encourage all Union County residents to get their free Union County Wellness Program card."

Union County provides a full range of services and referrals for persons in need of assistance, including seniors and those with disabilities. Persons with foreclosure issues can receive free guidance and referrals from the County's non-profit partner organization, the Home Ownership Preservation Foundation, by calling 888-995-4673.