HARRISBURG — A new Web site demonstrated in Harrisburg today will help consumers find the lowest local prices for more than 300 of the most widely-used pre scri ption medications.
The Web site was announced yesterday by Gov. Edward G. Rendell as one of his economic recovery and relief initiatives designed to help Pennsylvania families through the tough economic times.
“Pre scri ption costs can take a huge bite out of a family’s tight budget, a bite that can be especially painful during trying economic times,” Rendell said. “This new Web site is a way to help consumers find the lowest price for their medicines at pharmacies that are convenient for them.
“I think many consumers will be shocked to find the price differences for pre scri ptions in their local area – many times within the same chain of stores. It isn’t uncommon to be able to save between $20 and $100, and sometimes much more, by simply checking prices through this Web site,” the Governor said.
People who use PaRxpricefinder will be asked for their town or Zip code and the distance they are willing to travel to buy their medication. Users will be asked to provide the name of their pre scri ption drug, or just the first letter if they are unsure of the correct spelling. The list of pharmacies in the designated area selling their specific medicine will be shown, starting with the lowest price first. Consumers will be able to click on the pharmacy they choose for contact information and directions.
The prices shown, which are based on prices provided to the Commonwealth, are updated weekly. Pennsylvania joins 11 other states that offer such a resource. PaRxpricefinder used those 11 as a foundation and improved upon them. It is believed to offer consumers more information than any other existing Web site.
The site also contains other resources such as a link for finding online pharmacies, independent information about drugs and other price information. It also has resources where people can go for help if they are having difficulty affording their medications. The Website will be constantly improved based on consumer feedback.
