Oklahoma Governor proposes a ‘ Smart Card’ drug discount card program
Thursday, January 20th 2005, 6:22 am
By:
News On 6
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Governor Brad Henry is proposing a new program that could provide some Oklahomans with relief from the high cost of prescription medication.
Henry said Wednesday that a state-sponsored Smart Card would allow users to get a 30% to 40% discount for prescription drugs.
The three-pronged plan includes using a Web site that will direct Oklahomans to places where they can purchase reimported drugs primarily from Canada and for pharmacists to purchase reimported drugs and expand access to lower-cost prescriptions.
Henry said the state will negotiate discounts with pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.
Senate Republican leader Glenn Coffee said Republicans haven't had a chance to develop an opinion on the plan but are willing to look at this proposal by the governor.
Coffee agreed the state has to have a comprehensive health-care package that reduces costs across the board.
Henry says he plans to reveal more of the plan next week.
