Is NeedyMeds a nonprofit?

Yes. NeedyMeds is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit founded in 1997 in Bangor, Maine, by Dr. Richard Sagall, a family physician, and Libby Overly, a medical social worker. It originally built a database of pharmaceutical Patient Assistance Programs before launching its drug discount card in April 2009.

Does NeedyMeds require any personal information?

No. NeedyMeds requires no registration, no name, and no personal information to use its discount card, and has no income, age, residency, or insurance restrictions. It tracks no user-identifiable data, only aggregate savings and card-use counts.

How much can the NeedyMeds card save?

NeedyMeds says its discount is found roughly 85% of the time the card is used, typically saving about 50% off, with savings of up to 80% off cash price in some cases. The card is accepted at more than 65,000 pharmacies nationwide.

Can I use the NeedyMeds card with insurance?

No. Like other discount cards in this category, it can't be combined with insurance, and Medicare or Medicaid enrollees must choose between the card and their government drug plan for a given fill.

How is BetterBuyRx different from NeedyMeds?

NeedyMeds is a nonprofit discount card built around full user anonymity, with no live price comparison across pharmacies. BetterBuyRx is a free, no-signup tool that compares published prices across pharmacies and mail-order sources and links out; it does not issue a card or dispense medication.

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