RX For Oklahoma Receives Governor’s Commendation Of Excellence Award

May 16, 2008 -- RX for Oklahoma, a state funded prescription drug program, recently received a Governor's Commendation of Excellence award. The presentation was made during Quality Oklahoma Team Day, May 8, 2008 at the State Capitol.

The Governor's Commendation of Excellence award is given to programs that are unique or original, use quality processes, methods or tools and produce measurable results. Rx was one of only 28 programs statewide to receive such an honor.

Team Day, held in conjunction with Public Service Recognition Week, is an opportunity for state agencies to showcase successful projects. RX for Oklahoma exhibited a project that was team-led; improved customer service and satisfaction; improved delivery system and established valuable partnerships with other agencies and organizations.

Oscar Jackson, Administrator and Cabinet Secretary of Human Resources and Administration gives the Commendations of Excellence to Vaughn Clark, Director of the Community Development Division for the Oklahoma Department of Commerce on behalf of the RX of Oklahoma. Also pictured is Sherri Smith-Gray, Director of the Oklahoma Quality Institute of Metro Technology Centers

"RX for Oklahoma has accomplished a lot over the last year in terms of marketing and outreach," says Kathy McLaughlin, Director of Programs for Commerce. "We have worked hard at streamlining processes to ensure easy access to the program.  By establishing working partnerships with other state agencies to alleviate customer confusion from similar programs to gaining a unified marketing approach, it has been a busy but productive year. This program, while still relatively new, is making an impact across the state and making a difference in the lives of uninsured Oklahomans."

In addition, out of more than 50 state projects and programs, Rx for Oklahoma was a finalist in the following categories of specialty awards: quality crown, best booth, red tape reduction, and employee empowerment. These awards were given out during the Quality Oklahoma Team Day awards ceremony.

Rx for Oklahoma began in Oklahoma in late 2005 as a way to help Oklahomans access prescription assistance programs provided by pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. Nearly 17% of the state's population, or more than 700,000 people, lack the health insurance coverage needed to purchase medicines. This program assists medically indigent (uninsured or underinsured) Oklahomans with receiving free- and low-cost medications. All Oklahoma residents, regardless of age, who are uninsured or low income (at or below federal poverty limits) are encouraged to apply. 

Since the program began, Rx for Oklahoma has served more than 18,700 residents, saving them an estimated $6.5 million or $1,736 per person per month.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program call 1-877-RX4OKLA (877-794-6552), or go to on one of the regional processing centers designated for your residential county.  Information is also available at www.RX4OKLA.com.