Bashas' Discounts Generics to $3.99

WENDY TOTH

CHANDLER, Ariz. — Bashas' here began a $3.99 generic drug program at more than 65 Bashas' and Food City pharmacy locations in Arizona this month.

The basis for the program was established about two years ago, according to Dan Milovich, director of pharmacy operations, Bashas'. This was well before Wal-Mart Stores, Bentonville, Ark., unveiled its $4 generics program.

“We have updated the formulary and made some price adjustments,” he said, adding that the company wants to reward customers and make health care affordable in Arizona.

Over 300 commonly prescribed generic medications are available at up to a 30-day supply for conditions such as allergies, arthritis, asthma, cholesterol, diabetes, glaucoma, heart health and mental health.

The supermarket plans to promote its program through newspaper ads and other local media, physician detailing and in-store signage. In addition, Bashas' offers a $20 grocery certificate the first time a customer transfers or fills a new prescription through this program.

Customers will also receive 10% off their grocery bill for every fifth prescription filled and are eligible for the generic medication discount with or without prescription drug coverage.

The retailer is urging interested customers to ask their doctors if a generic drug is available for their prescription and if it is right for them.

“The positives for this program are numerous, from making everyday prescriptions affordable for those who would otherwise do without, to expanding on our everyday philosophy that ‘Bashas' Cares for Arizonans.’ We are hometown Arizona and have been a part of the community for over 75 years,” Milovich said.

Kroger Co., Cincinnati, started a $4 generics program in October, while a number of other stores, including Giant Eagle, Price Cutter in the Springfield, Mo., area, and Target began similar plans last year, shortly after Wal-Mart launched its program.

Prior to the Wal-Mart program, Bashas' offered a discounted 90-day generic prescription program.