The FamilyWize prescription drug card program in Allen County set a new record for saving residents money on their prescriptions in 2011.

According to figures compiled by FamilyWize, the program saved residents a total of $229,423 on their prescription drugs last year.  The card was used 14,804 times during the year.

Since the program was introduced in Allen County nearly five years ago, county residents have been able to save $736,881.  The average saved on a prescription is $17.25, or 30 percent.

The United Way of Allen County began offering the program to residents through its member agencies in March of 2007.  In April 2008, the Allen County Board of Commissioners teamed up with United Way to help publicize the program and distribute cards in the community.

"Too many of our citizens are without health insurance coverage and even more skip buying medicine or reduce the dosage they need because of the high cost,” said Commissioner Nelson Peters.  “While this card doesn’t solve this difficult problem, it does offer some immediate relief.”

“We’re grateful to the Commissioners for helping get the word out about FamilyWize,” said Todd Stephenson, president & CEO of United Way of Allen County. “This simple prescription card can go a long way in helping local residents manage their medical costs.  I encourage all residents to examine whether or not it can help them cut expenses.”

FamilyWize cards are primarily for people with no health insurance or prescription coverage. However, they can also be used when people have to buy medicine not covered by their health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare or VA benefits.

Most local pharmacies accept the FamilyWize prescription drug discount cards.  The cards have no usage or age limits, income requirements or registration forms, and can be used immediately.

FamilyWize cards currently can be obtained at more than 50 sites from a variety of participating local partner agencies, municipal and county agencies and departments.  The Associated Churches of Fort Wayne also distributes the cards at its 28 food bank locations.  In addition, you can access www.familywize.org to print a card, look up drug prices and find a list of participating pharmacies.