September 21, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today unveiled the Michigan prescription drug discount card program that will lower prescription drug costs for some of the state’s one million uninsured residents.

The card is available to low income, working residents who do not have prescription drug coverage and are not enrolled in other government-sponsored prescription drug programs.

“The Michigan prescription drug discount card will provide much needed assistance for the low income working men, women and families who struggle with the high cost of prescription drugs,” Granholm said today. “With more than one million uninsured residents in Michigan, this card fills a critical gap in our health care system by making prescription drugs more affordable for those who have nowhere else to turn.”

Enrollees in the program will be able to use their discount prescription drug card at more than 2,300 pharmacies across the state, including all major chain stores. The MI-Rx program is scheduled to officially begin October 1.

The state of Michigan is currently registering individuals for the drug discount card program. Michigan’s prescription drug card program differs from other state discount programs, such as those offered in Ohio and Arizona, by serving more than just the senior population.

There is no age limit to participate in Michigan’s program. To qualify for the program, family members must only be Michigan residents, have no other prescription drug coverage, and have an income level at or below the state’s median income level.

For a single individual, the median income level is $27,930. For a family of four that income level is $56,550.

“Governor Granholm has made a commitment to provide low cost prescription drugs to improve the health care for all Michigan residents,” said Janet Olszewski, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. “This free drug discount program will be crucial as Michigan looks to close the gap among our uninsured populations.”

When enrollees present a MI-Rx card at a participating pharmacy they can expect to save approximately 20 percent off the retail price of common prescription drugs. Savings will depend on the kinds of medicines used, and if they are generic or brand name drugs.

Currently, more than one million Michigan citizens do not have access to prescription drug coverage.