It is being released in partnership with the Coalition to Protect America's Elders, The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Georgia Council on Aging, Senior Citizens, Inc., and the Alabama Consumer Alliance. Center for Florida Consumers Executive Director Michelle Rehwinkel said the informal survey should serve as a wake-up call for consumers. Some consumers can save the equivalent of a grocery order by comparing prices for a single medication. Imagine how much consumers who depend on five or more medications can save. Georgia Council on Aging Chair Martha Eaves said the survey could change the way consumers shop for prescription drugs.
People assume that all pharmacies charge the same price for prescription medications.
In fact, this survey found huge differences in price. Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Bob Crawford urged consumers to be more aware and alert about the dramatic disparity in prescription drug prices. The good news is that comparison shopping, even by telephone, will save people money. Pharmacies were contacted by phone between Aug. 7 and 11 and were asked the cash price for a 30-day supply of each drug. The consumer group survey found little price difference between independents and chains in Florida.