ConsumerWatch: Website Allows Prescription Buyers To Comparison Shop

(CBS 5) - Buying prescriptions without insurance can cost a fortune. But a new startup is helping consumers compare drug prices for free.

GoodRx, allows consumers to find their prescription by simply entering the name of the drug and their zip code. According to founder Doug Hirsch, prescription prices can vary significantly from one pharmacy to another. To help consumers who are struggling with the high price of health care, Hirsch said he created a price comparison data base composed of more than 6000 drugs.

"We're doing all the leg work for the consumer, so you don't have to stand online and you don't have to do research on the internet and figure out what sort of coupon might exist," Hirsch said. "We put it all on one easy place for a consumer."

Consumers who have insurance can also find a savings. Carmela Castagnolo was surprised when she discovered she could save on some of her prescriptions.

"I've never looked around because I have insurance," she said.

Dr. Neda Pakdaman was also surprised when she used GoodRx.

"I just kind of assumed that when I prescribed something if it was generic it was one size fits all," she said.

Dr. Pakdaman said she can now use this tool to help patients who are struggling with cost.

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