Governor Gregoire Announces Over 16,000 Enrollees in WA Prescription Drug Program

For Immediate Release: March 26, 2007

OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire today announced that 16,200 Washingtonians have signed up to receive the free card that will save them an average of 20% on brand-name drugs and 60% on generic drugs.

�I am pleased that so many Washingtonians have taken advantage of this free program, but there are still many people out there who may be able to save money on their prescriptions,� said Governor Gregoire. �I encourage everyone to sign up.�

Governor Gregoire also announced that Haggen Food & Pharmacy and Top Food & Drugs (both owned by Haggen, Inc, a Washington-based company) have joined the Washington Prescription Drug Program network.

The Washington Prescription Drug Program (WPDP) is a new prescription drug discount program created by the Legislature at the request of Governor Gregoire. It is open to all Washington residents who do not have prescription drug insurance coverage or whose insurance does not cover all their prescription drug needs. There are no other eligibility requirements or fees required for membership in the WPDP.

In 2006, Washington and Oregon formed an interstate agreement establishing the Northwest Prescription Drug Purchasing Consortium. This consortium was designed to pool the two states� purchasing power on behalf of citizens who are struggling with skyrocketing prescription drug costs.

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