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July 25, 2008 5:05:54 PM CDT

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Grocery Chain Offers Free Rx Meds

Posted Aug 6, 07 3:17 PM CDT in US,  Business,  Science & Health 

(Newser) – Pharmacies in Publix supermarkets across five Southern states will distribute seven antibiotics free to patients with prescriptions, the chain said today. The CEO allows that one goal is to drive customer traffic, but it's also an example of the private sector assisting access to affordable health care, the AP reports. Wal-Mart and Kmart recently started selling uber-cheap meds.

Publix, which operates 684 pharmacies, will provide 14-day supplies of the oral antibiotics, plus unlimited refills. A Florida health official says he expects the offer to be very popular with the state's 3.6 million uninsured residents. Gov. Charlie Crist attended the announcement to show his support for the measure. "It can't be more affordable than free," he said.

Source Associated Press

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Amoxicillin, cephalexin, penicillin VK and erythromycin will all be available for free, even if the cost would be otherwise covered by insurance.   (Shutterstock.com)
Publix supermarket and pharmacy in Evans, GA.   ((c) cdharri%u0455on)
While Wal-Mart and Kmart have previously offered discounts, Publix is the first company to supply certain drugs at no cost.   (Shutterstock.com)
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health care  • medicine  • retail  • antibiotics  • Charlie Crist  • pharma  • free


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