Seek exemption to go back to generic drugs
Some consumers are being pushed by their insurers to switch away from certain generic drugs in favor of the name-brand versions — and can shell out more money as a result due to higher co-pays.
That’s according a joint report by The New York Times and ProPublica, adding that it appears to be an increasing trend. Examples cited include such drugs as the cholesterol treatment Zetia, Aggrenox for stroke prevention and Adderall XR for attention deficit disorder. The latter’s list price is $7.12 per pill, almost twice as pricey as generics.
What can you do if you find yourself caught by the trend? Ask to switch back to generics.
“Pharmacies and doctors could seek an exemption from the insurer if they wanted the generic instead. Several patients said they had not been told of that option,” according to the news report.
Pet freebie: Take home a dog or cat for free Aug. 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Broward County’s Animal Care Adoption Center, 2400 SW 42 St. in Fort Lauderdale. Called “Clear the Shelter,” the annual event last year found homes for 77 animals. “This year we aim to top those numbers,” states the county website, Broward.org. All pets are sterilized, have microchip ID and already have obtained necessary vaccinations including a rabies shot.
Freebie: What is the best free anti-virus software? Actually, two choices — Avast Free Antivirus 2017 and AVG Antivirus Free (2017) — recently were deemed PC Magazine’s “Editor’s Choice” for effectiveness. Read its rundown at bit.ly/freeant.
Reader reaction: Time is money, and reader Sarina, of Broward, says she is tired of continually being asked by companies to respond to surveys — taking her time without compensation. “Enough is enough,” she noted via email. She feels “it is time for companies to start paying us with any kind of bonus for responding to surveys.” (Yes, I agree they’re generally time-wasters.)
Cutting Corners appears on Sundays in Community News. Email Cutcorner@aol.com or record a message at 954-356-4759.