Rhode Island residents now have an ally to help them fight off rising healthcare costs. A new statewide discount prescription drug card program, called RIRx, is scheduled to officially launch today. RIRx, which is free to all residents, will provide discounts on both Brand and Generic medications (average savings are roughly 30%). Rhode Island residents can download a free RIRx prescription drug card by visiting www.RIRx.com. Anyone not able to access the website, or otherwise obtain a member card, can visit any CVS/pharmacy location in Rhode Island. Simply ask the pharmacist to process your prescription through the RIRx program. CVS/pharmacy has been selected to serve as the preferred pharmacy. RIRx is currently accepted at over 50,000 pharmacies around the country. The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce will be working to create awareness and distribute cards for RIRx. The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce is Rhode Island’s oldest and largest business advocacy organization. Today the Chamber has more than 2,300 member businesses representing all 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island. “The cost of healthcare is a top concern for Rhode Island’s residents,” said Laurie White, president of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. “With unemployment on the rise, due to the stalling economy, many individuals and families are finding themselves without health insurance. RIRx and the larger stimulus package are designed give our residents access to much needed healthcare cost savings.” RIRx was launched to help the uninsured and underinsured people of Rhode Island afford their prescription medications. You can download a free card and search drug pricing and participating pharmacies at www.RIRx.com. RIRx is a simple solution to the confusing maze of discount programs that have appeared in recent years. Many of these programs only cover certain drugs, charge fees, and include membership restrictions such as age and income limitations. RIRx is also a safe option for those people concerned about their privacy. RIRx will not share, sell, or distribute personal information for any reason.