Various companies now are offering "discount cards" that supposedly give consumers a price cut on prescriptions and other health-related purchases. Sounds good -- but be careful: some health discount cards promise more than they can deliver, some are worthless, and some are outright frauds.

Discount card offers tend to target older citizens. The offers may come in the mail, or you may get a call from a salesperson asking to come to your home to explain the company's program. Sellers may make the offer sound too good to pass up, and they may urge you to make a "snap decision."

Be wary. The cards may cost hundreds of dollars per year, and some companies promise much more than they deliver. For example, companies have promised that the cards could be used for discounts up to 40% at certain pharmacies -- but, after paying for a card, consumers discover that their pharmacy doesn't accept it.

Discount cards also have been sold with promises that consumers can save on dental care, optometry services, and chiropractic service. But consumers often find that their local health-care professionals don't accept the card. Some consumers have been told that their health care professional will be signing up to accept the card, only to find that no one has even approached the health providers about signing up to accept a card.

Follow these tips when you are offered a health care discount card: