Other LanguagesOLYMPIA – The Washington Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has successfully stopped deceptive marketing by a prescription drug discount card.
The AGO alleged Washington Drug Card falsely advertised their service as ‘Washington's Official Statewide Prescription Assistance Program,’ from March to April 2013. Washington Drug Card is a private company and is not affiliated or endorsed by any state governmental agency.
The state’s official prescription drug discount program is ‘Washington Prescription Drug Program,’ which is administered through the Washington State Health Care Authority.
In addition, Washington Drug Card used a graphic similar to the Washington state seal—this is prohibited by state law. The AGO alleged use of the state seal created a false sense of security because of governmental status and authority.
“Consumers can’t make informed decisions if a company uses misleading information,” said Attorney General Bob Ferguson. “The Attorney General’s Office won’t stand for deceptive marketing.”
The AGO has entered an Assurance of Discontinuance in Thurston County with Washington Drug Card. This requires them to:
- use a logo on their website approved by the Washington Secretary of State;
- not use any symbol or graphic that imitates the Washington state seal;
- not misrepresent their legal authority to Washington consumers; and
- not use marketing strategies that imply a Washington state endorsement.
Washington Drug Card will pay $2,500 in fees and costs.
Washington Drug Card is a free, pre-activated, prescription drug card that provides discounts on medication. The card can be printed directly off their website and used at pharmacies around the state.
The card is designed for patients who do not have prescription drug coverage, or who have coverage, but are subject to large deductibles and co-pays.
Assistant Attorney General Brooks Clemmons of the Consumer Protection Division led this case.
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The Office of the Attorney General is the chief legal office for the state of Washington with attorneys and staff in 27 divisions across the state providing legal services to roughly 200 state agencies, boards and commissions. Attorney General Bob Ferguson is working hard to protect consumers and seniors against fraud, keep our communities safe, protect our environment and stand up for our veterans. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
Contacts: Janelle Guthrie, Director of Communications
Alison Dempsey-Hall, Dep. Communications Director