Dauphin County Commissioners Jeff Haste, Mike Pries and George P. Hartwick, III announced that the county is now offering the uninsured and underinsured a discount prescription drug card that promises to save consumers an average of 24 percent on prescription drugs compared with regular retail prices.

The commissioners decided to offer this national program to Dauphin County residents to help them cope with the high price of prescription drugs under a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo).

The NACo card is available now to anyone who requests one: there are no enrollment fees, age requirements or income limits. An estimated 90 percent of the pharmacies in the county will accept the NACo card, and more than 60,000 participating retail pharmacies will honor it nationwide.

These cards come at no cost to county taxpayers. They are made possible through an arrangement with NACo and a drug discount company known as Caremark Rx, which negotiates with pharmacies to offer a discount off retail prices. Caremark derives revenue through a small fee that the pharmacy pays on each transaction.

The commissioners emphasized that the plan is NOT insurance, and consumers should check to see what pharmacies are participating. Pets are covered for medications that also treat human conditions.

"According to the 2010 census, more than 50 million Americans have no prescription coverage, which can be devastating for a family when even just one sickness strikes," said Chairman Haste. "Using this card is simple, and best of all, it's free."

Cards can be obtained at CVS locations, senior centers, county libraries, county offices and buildings, or by calling 717-780-6300. Residents can also print an ID card at www.caremark.com/naco.

Pries said, "Anyone qualifies for this program. This card is also a useful option for Medicare Part D participants if their plan doesn't cover a medication. Use the card any time your prescription is not covered by insurance."

"Just show your card when you get your next prescription filled," Hartwick said. "It is a great benefit that we're happy offer. Please take advantage of this program-you could save a lot on commonly used prescriptions as well as specialty medications. "

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