Publix, famous for some of the finest sub sandwiches around (argue with me if you must), launched a plan earlier this year that connects shoppers with a 90-day supply of certain commonly prescribed drugs for only $7.50 each.
There are 29 generics included on the roster, covering medications used to manage:
- Mental health
- Diabetes
- Arthritis pain
- Cardiac health
- Seizure conditions
Shoppers can obtain up to 90 days of eligible prescriptions for a flat fee of $7.50. That breaks down to roughly $2.50 per month.
While the selection of covered medications might look somewhat arbitrary, there’s a method to the choices.
“We aimed to select one or more widely used drugs that treat a variety of health issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol [and others],” Publix representative Brian West told Savinly.
To get medicine via the “Next Best to Free” program at Publix pharmacies, you’ll need a physician’s prescription that exactly matches the drug, strength and form listed.
To verify your prescription qualifies, print the list from the Publix Pharmacy site to show your doctor, or have your doctor’s office call Publix to confirm the prescription meets the program’s criteria.
If your medication isn’t included at the moment, don’t lose hope — it could be added later.
“As appropriateness, popularity and pricing change in the prescription drug market, we anticipate updates to the list,” West said. “There may be additions, removals, or substitutions.”
There’s no extra paperwork or complicated steps required to access the lower-cost prescriptions.
The initiative, which West notes is expected to continue indefinitely, is available to everyone regardless of insurance status. However, it cannot be combined with other discounts, rebates, coupons or promotions.
If the drug you use isn’t part of this low-cost program, remember to check Publix’s free medication list as well.
Other Places to Find Affordable Prescription Drugs
Publix isn’t alone in offering free or budget-friendly prescriptions.
- Rite Aid’s free Rx Savings Program includes a range of generics priced between $9.99 and $15.99 depending on the medication and quantity.
- Target provides dozens of generic drugs for $4 for a 30-day supply or $10 for a 90-day supply.
- Walgreens lists over 400 value-priced generics priced $9.99 to $12, varying by prescription and quantity. A yearly membership costs $20 for individuals or $35 for families.
- Walmart’s prescription plan covers various medications at $4 for 30 days or $10 for 90 days.
If you swing by Publix for your next prescription refill, don’t forget to grab a Pub sub while you’re there. You can send your thanks later.
Anna Reynolds is a staff writer at Savinly. Care to guess what she’s having for lunch?
