FARMINGTON — Franklin County commissioners voted 2-1 Tuesday to participate in the National Association of Counties prescription discount program for the benefit of county residents.

According to the association’s website, “any county resident without prescription coverage can use this program. Even if you have prescription insurance coverage, you may still benefit from the discount card since it may save you money on prescriptions that your existing plan does not offer.”

There is no cost to the county, Commissioner Gary McGrane of Jay said. He previously brought up the program, but he and Commissioner Charles Webster of Farmington agreed to put off voting on participation until Chairman Clyde Barker of Strong returned from being out for medical issues.

Years ago, the county had participated in the program.

Webster said a variety of programs offer discount prescriptions.

“I just think we shouldn’t be picking one program over another,” he said.

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Many groups, including AARP, offer this type of coverage, Webster said. He opposed the vote while McGrane and Barker voted in favor.

The program provides an opportunity for county residents to save money on prescriptions, McGrane said. He will contact various nonprofit agencies to see if any will give the county a little space to put up a display.

Once the county’s participation is recognized by the association, residents can go on the association’s website at www.nacorx.org and print off a discount prescription card.

People can present the discount card at participating retail pharmacies along with their prescription or prescriptions, and save an average of 24 percent on prescription drugs, according to the website.

There are no limits on how many times the card can be used and it can be used for the whole family.

The card can even be used for pets, if they are prescribed a medication that is also used for humans. There are no claim forms to fill out and no membership fees.

dperry@sunmediagroup.net