Oklahoma Governor proposes a â€˜ Smart Cardâ€™ drug discount card program

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) â€“ Governor Brad Henry is proposing a new program that could provide some Oklahomans with relief from the high cost of prescription medication.<br/><br/>Henry said Wednesday that a

Thursday, January 20th 2005, 6:22 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) â€“ 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.