Grocery chain pharmacy fills 100 millionth free prescription

LAKELAND — Publix Super Markets Inc. recently filled its 100 millionth free prescription.

According to a press release, the Lakeland-based grocery chain’s Publix Pharmacy division launched a free medication program in 2007 in response to the rising number of deaths and increases in health care costs that result from people not being able to afford prescription drugs. The program includes 14-day supplies of four oral antibiotics, as well as 90-day supplies of maintenance medications used to treat high blood pressure and diabetes.