35 new generic medicines will be offered in the region this year.
This could mean more than $700 million dollars in annual savings for patients. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield says topping the list of new generics are Plavix for heart patients, Singulair for asthmatics and Cymbalta for depression and pain.
Joel Owerbach is Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer for Excellus. He says nearly 80% of Rochestarians are already taking advantage of generic drug options.
"To become available in generic form means that drug has been on the market for often 15-20 years. In today's economy with the high cost of healthcare, physicians, healthcare workers and patients are all united on 'What can I do?' to get the greatest benefit at the least cost," says Owerbach.
Owerback says generic prescriptions typically only cost patients about $5-10 dollars. And in some cases, even less.