Affordability Check
How to afford BSS
Generic name: balanced salt solution
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get BSS — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.
Pick an option above to see your specific path.
Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.
About BSS and its cost
What is this medication? Balanced Salt Solution, commonly known as BSS, is a sterile physiological irrigation solution used primarily during surgical procedures involving the eye. It is most often utilized during cataract surgery, corneal transplants, and vitrectomies to rinse the intraocular tissues. Because its composition is carefully balanced to match the natural fluids of the eye, it helps protect the health of the ocular cells and prevents the eye from drying out or becoming damaged during the operation.
In addition to its protective qualities, this medication is essential for maintaining the shape and pressure of the eyeball while the surgeon works. By replacing the natural fluids that are removed or lost during surgery, BSS ensures that the internal structures of the eye remain stable and accessible. It is not a medication that patients typically use themselves at home; rather, it is a specialized tool administered by healthcare professionals in a sterile surgical environment.
BSS is made by Alcon. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.
Common questions
What's the cheapest way to afford BSS?
It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.
Can I use a copay card with Medicare for BSS?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Alcon has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover BSS?
Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.
How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?
Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.
What if I have a high-deductible plan?
For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.
Are there charity grants for Cataract?
Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.
More about BSS
Full BSS drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Cataract
Drugs, grants, and assistance for this condition
Guide to Patient Assistance Programs
How PAPs work, who qualifies, typical wait times
If your insurance denied coverage
5-level appeal playbook — Medicare has a 60% win rate at Level 3