The California HealthCare Foundation (CHCF) today announced the release of a new comparative guide to help seniors sort through the various discount programs available in California.

"With so many new prescription discount programs cropping up, it’s difficult to know which ones may actually save you money. This new information can help California seniors sort through the various discount programs and help them weigh the options, as they look for ways to reduce the costs of their prescriptions," said Mark D. Smith, M.D., M.B.A, president and CEO of the California HealthCare Foundation.

The online resource provides side-by-side comparisons of several elements of 11 discount programs including discount cards, online pharmacy options, and state-mandated programs. Seniors, their families, and advisors can find out:

• Who provides the program;
• Who qualifies for the program;
• How much it costs to join the program;
• Which major retailers accept the program;
• Whether the program includes mail order and online options;
• Which prescriptions are generally included in the program;
• What savings are available through the program; and
• The prescription costs for 12 commonly prescribed drugs "We are not suggesting that the programs are for everyone," said Marianne Laouri, Ph.D., senior program officer and project lead. "We are simply trying to fill a gap for seniors grappling with the real life challenges of paying for the prescriptions they need each day. We think this information can help." Prescription Drug Options for Seniors: A Comparative Guide was prepared for CHCF by Mercer Human Resource Consulting.