The Butler County Commission announced Monday the launch of a new discount program for prescription drugs.

Through a partnership with Financial Marketing Concepts, Inc., Coast2Coast Rx cards are being made available throughout the county. According to Ron Howard, a representative of Financial Marketing Concepts, the card will allow for all county residents, regardless of income, age or health status to participate and save in the cost of prescriptions as well as costs of screenings, lab work and even pet medication. The cost is free to all and there are no contracts involved.

“This is a point-of-sale discount,” Howard said. “The amount of the discount varies depending on the drug and the agreement with the pharmacy. It’s often a very significant discount for those who are uninsured.”

The program advertises that it can help individuals save up to 65 percent on their medication costs for both generic and name brand drugs at participating pharmacies. Fred’s Pharmacy in Georgiana, CVS, Walmart and Walgreens are listed as participating pharmacies on Coast2Coast Rx’s website.

Participation in the savings program does not cost the county any money, but instead Financial Marketing Company will pay royalties of $1 to the county for each prescription filled through on the program.

“I’m glad that we can give this opportunity to the citizens of our county, but I think it could be too good to be true,” Commissioner Frank Hickman said. “If it works the way it has been presented to the commission, the county could get some money and those who use the card could benefit, especially those who are uninsured. It does sound too good to be true, but I hope that sometimes fairytales do come true.”

According to Howard, the program has been implemented in 33 counties throughout the state, including Mobile County, which has received more than $30,000 in royalties.

“If this is something that pans out, it could be a very good thing for our citizens and the county,” Commission Chairman Jesse McWilliams said.

The program is endorsed by the Association of County Commissions of Alabama.

According to Howard, cards will be made available at participating pharmacies. Cards can also be printed here.