Recognizing that Americans pay more for prescription drugs than any other developed country in the world, CSIP has long made it a priority to direct consumers towards reputable tools that can help them find safe and affordable sources for needed medications. We have recently made a change to our Save on My Meds initiative. In light of increased need during the COVID-19 pandemic, a collaboration with our partners, NeedyMeds.org and GoodRx.com, now connects consumers to even more support and resources.
For over 20 years the nonprofit NeedyMeds has served as a centralized resource for information on pharmaceutical patient assistance programs. It has expanded over the years to include links to cost savings information on other aspects of health care, including transportation and finding savings by diagnosis or service needed.
Since 2011, the GoodRx discount card and app has saved its customers on average $355 a year on prescriptions. It lists current prices and discounts so that consumers can compare and find the best deals, as well as printable coupons.
While saving money on medications is important, it all begins with making sure that any online pharmacies used to obtain prescriptions are safe and legitimate. In 2017, CSIP partnered with the states of North Carolina and Connecticut, as well as health service organizations, to offer the website VerifyBeforeYouBuy.org. Consumers can use the online search tool, powered by LegitScript, to see if an online pharmacy is certified and from a safe source. Additional resources are available through the site, including links to the new cost-savings resources of our partners.
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About the Center for Safe Internet Pharmacies
The Center for Safe Internet Pharmacies (CSIP), a non-profit organization founded in 2011, represents the technology sector and Internet intermediaries. CSIP’s mission is to promote best practices in the technology and commerce industries and educate consumers about safely buying and using medicines and online pharmacies. CSIP’s board members include Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Verizon Media, Twitter, MasterCard, Discover, Amex, Paypal and UPS.