by Larry Patrick
WALSENBURG-The Huerfano County Commissioners got some good news from their County Assessor on Wednesday. Louise Sandoval said the assessed valuation for the County is up nearly $20 million dollars over last years figures. The Commissioners were quick to note that the figures take in the time from 2007 to 2008, prior to the recession and that they must still be cautious in controlling their costs. Money from oil and gas plus reappraisal of properties mostly accounted for the increase.
Good news abounds for people getting prescriptions. The new NACo drug discount cards program will begin in Huerfano County on Sept. 1st. The card is free to the public and helps consumers save money on their prescription medications any time their prescriptions are not covered by insurance. Star Drug of Walsenburg will accept the cards. Residents should see average savings of around 20%. The cards can be used by all county residents regardless of age, income or existing health coverage. There is no enrollment form, no membership fee and no restrictions or limits on frequency of use.
If you have health insurance and it doesn’t cover certain drugs, the card can be used. CVS Caremark administers the program. They negotiate with pharmacies to offer discounts with the cards. It usually draws more customers to the pharmacies allowing them to sell more products and services. The pharmacy pays a small fee to CVS Caremark to administer the program.
These discount prescription cards will be available Sept. 1st at the Courthouse, City offices, the library, COG office and other locations may be added soon. Only one card is needed per family. With people concerned about tight budgets this is welcome news.
