The City of Santa Ana, Calif. has launched a free discount prescription program for residents and is using revenue generated by the new program to make community health and fitness programs more affordable and accessible.

The program, launched in July, has already saved Santa Ana residents an average of 27 percent on the price of their prescriptions, with some residents saving more than 80 percent. Paramount Rx also provides Santa Ana with online tools to help residents locate one of 54,000 participating pharmacies across the nation, research drug pricing and availability, including generic alternative, and access mail order services.

The high cost of prescription drugs is a significant challenge for Americans of all ages, particularly those who are uninsured. While similar programs often focus on senior citizens, the benefits of Santa Ana’s program will be provided to all city residents and their families who need access to more affordable prescription drugs.

“This program is our way of helping those in our community affected by escalating medical costs,” said Santa Ana Community Services Supervisor Jeannie G. Jurado. “The simplicity of the program is not only providing our citizens with increased access to affordable prescriptions for their families, it is also helping stimulate community programs and promote the value of a healthy lifestyle.”