Launched in October 2009, Prescription Drug Discount Card offers average savings of 20 percent; Somerville was first city in MA to offer the program
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Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Somerville Health Department Director Paulette Renault-Caragianes announced that, one year after the launch of the National League of Cities’ Prescription Drug Discount program, the City has seen more than $5,000 in savings to residents, and expects the program to continue to grow in the coming months.  Offering an average of 23% savings per month individuals, the program is designed to help residents seeking relief from the high cost of prescription drugs.  The City of Somerville was the first Massachusetts municipality to offer the program through the NLC.

“This program has proven extremely beneficial to Somerville residents, and we are hoping to continue to increase awareness and usage over the next year,” said Renault-Caragianes.  “The NLC has helped us create additional ways to help residents save money and offer significant public health benefits, and we’re grateful for their leadership and support.”

To date, Somerville residents have seen an average savings of $431/month, or approximately $5,400 since October 2009.

The discount cards may be used by any resident of Somerville – there are no restrictions based on age, income level or existing health coverage. The NLC card can be used when purchasing prescription drugs at many area pharmacies as well as more than 59,000 participating retail pharmacies across the country.  Participating pharmacies in or near Somerville include Ciampa Apothecary, CVS, Inman Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Skenderian Apothecary, Stop&Shop, Target, and Walgreens.  The discount card program is administered by CVS Caremark.

Cards are available at no cost to city residents at numerous locations throughout Somerville, including City Hall and other municipal offices, the Health Department at 50 Evergreen Ave, and Council on Aging at 167 Holland Street.

The Somerville Health Department also reminds residents that the Somerville Police Department is now collecting unwanted or unused prescription drugs in the lobby of the Public Safety Building, 220 Washington Street.  Residents may bring unwanted medications to the drop-off 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by placing all containers inside a zip lock bag, and removing all identification from the containers.  Liquids are not accepted.  Residents may also dispose of needles and sharp materials in the Public Safety Building lobby.  Needles must be brought to the kiosk in a sturdy plastic bag or metal container, such as:

• A ‘sharps’ container (no larger than one gallon)
• A bleach or detergent bottle (no larger than one gallon)
• A coffee can, with the lid securely fastened and taped closed
• A 1.5 liter plastic soda bottle

No loose needles will be accepted.

For more information, please contact the Somerville Health Department at 617-625-6600 ext. 4300.

~(from the city of Somerville)