My husband (has cancer) is a frequent customer of a local family-run pharmacy. It’s much more personal and welcoming there than at a chain pharmacy — they recognize us and I feel very comfortable asking them questions about medications (husband currently has a lot).
Anyway this week my husband’s prior authorization for a medication was delayed and he decided he would pay the out-of-pocket cost rather than wait a couple days for medicine he needs to go to work. It was a $100 prescription so this was tough but not earth-shattering.
Anyway; the lead pharmacist noticed that he was being charged for his normally-insured medication, asked him about it, and took 50% off as a gift. He said every year at Christmas they have staff and community contribute to a fund to help people pay for medications, and whenever a usual customer is facing an unexpected charge, they can cover some of the cost.
Reminder to support your local businesses, build your local community!