With BC-ME-XGR–2004 Bills,235

By The Associated Press

A survey released Monday spots the lowest prescription drug prices among Maine retailers.

The state Department of Human Services surveys all independent and chain-owned retail pharmacies to help senior citizens and disabled people make decisions about their drug purchases. It’s also useful to doctors and those who lack health insurance, state officials say.

The 4th annual survey was sent in July and August to 207 pharmacies in Maine. Each was asked to send its retail price, less discounts for senior citizens, for 15 drugs frequently covered by MaineCare. Ninety-five pharmacies responded.

The survey also includes several Canadian pharmacies and Web-based mail order pharmacies.

The pharmacy with the lowest drug prices was Howard’s Rexall Drug in Farmington.

Other top-rated pharmacies include Downeast Pharmacy in Sanford, Goodnow’s Pharmacy in Rockland, Unity Pharmacy in Unity, Rumford Drug Store in Rumford, Variety Drug in Skowhegan, Kennebec Professional Pharmacy in Augusta, Wal-Mart in Skowhegan, Target in South Portland and McFalls Pharmacy in Mechanic Falls.

Shaw’s Pharmacy in Bangor was the top rated pharmacy in Penobscot County.

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On the Net:

Bureau of Elder Services, drug survey: http://www.state.me.us/dhs/beas/

AP-ES-11-10-03 1536EST