Care L.L.C. and PCS Health Systems Inc. have expanded their customer bases to include nonmedical groups that market prescription services directly to the public. Consumers pay a fee to join a plan, obtaining access to discounted prescription-drug prices. Although the programs have membership restrictions, just about anyone can find a plan to join.
Many programs are available.
Three of the larger plans are discussed here. SaveWell, established in August 1999 as a subsidiary of Medical Mutual of Ohio, provides prescription services through the Merck-Medco PAID network. Prescriptions can be obtained through the mail or at participating community pharmacies. The primary subscriber must be at least 18 years old, but family members of any age can enroll at no additional charge. The program enrolled 25,000 customers in its first year.