Are you looking for a way to get prescription discounts? Or are you trying to avoid going to a drugstore every time you need a refill? Have you been searching for ways to get your drugs at discounted prices without worrying about their authenticity? If your answer to these questions is Yes, then you have come to the right place. This article discusses everything you need to know about mail-order pharmacies, from what they are, how they operate, their pros and cons, things to consider before using a mail-order pharmacy and how to find one.
Getting your medications online might be a bit risky as there are now illegal online pharmacies selling fake drugs, but with a mail-order pharmacy, you do not have to worry about getting fake drugs. Be clear about what online and mail-order pharmacies do, as they operate quite differently. We shall discuss their differences, but first, let’s explain what a mail-order pharmacy is.
What is a Mail Order Pharmacy?
A mail-order pharmacy works closely with insurance companies to mail prescriptions to those with insurance. These alternatives to local pharmacies make life considerably simpler for those who cannot visit their local pharmacy to purchase the required medications. Patients can either fill out an online order form and upload their prescription or request that their doctor mails their prescription straight to the mail-order pharmacy.
A mail-order pharmacy allows patients to get their medications at lower prices without visiting the drug stores. The medications get delivered to them within a few days, and if they have insurance, they do not need to pay out of pocket.
Mail-Order Pharmacy vs Online Pharmacy
Online and mail-order pharmacies send out prescriptions; however, they operate differently. While online pharmacies may or may not accept insurance, mail-order pharmacies work directly with your insurance.
Additionally, not all internet pharmacies are trustworthy. Some websites would advertise huge discounts while sending customers fake drugs. An online pharmacy may not be governed by American laws and regulations and may operate from another place. Mail-order pharmacies must follow tight laws and regulations to assure the safety and efficacy of their medications.
You can still use an online pharmacy to obtain the required medicines, even if you don’t have health insurance. Make sure you only shop at legitimate, VIPPS-accredited online pharmacies. You can also download app on Apple Store or Play Store to use some of the best and trusted online pharmacies. These pharmacies give users valid discounts without selling low quality drugs and may allow users to get a discount on refills.
Why should you consider using a mail-order pharmacy? Here’s why
Convenience: You do not need to leave your house to buy your prescribed medications. Your doctor can also help you make the order, and the drugs will be delivered to your doorstep.
24/7 Customer Service: With a mail-order pharmacy, you can order your medications any time, and in case you have issues placing your orders or any type of complaints, you can easily contact customer service.
90-day supply: Another significant benefit of mail-order pharmacies is that patients can order a large supply of their medication and be shipped to their mailbox. With the large order, patients also get big discounts on purchased drugs.
Connectivity: Patients can see their order history at legitimate mail-order pharmacies, which empowers them to manage their healthcare requirements. This is especially crucial if you’re seeing a doctor for the first time. Similarly, working with a mail-order pharmacy service can help health professionals interact and develop new partnerships.
Why shouldn’t you use a mail-order pharmacy? Here’s why
- Delivery delay: It may take longer to get prescription drugs via mail than to buy them at a local drugstore. Your mail-order medications could arrive in three to 14 business days, depending on the mail delivery system.
- If you prefer to speak to a pharmacist face-to-face, a mail-order pharmacy may not be your best choice. When picking up their prescriptions, some patients may have questions they’d like to discuss with their pharmacists.
- Damaged package: Some medications that require special handling might be challenging to order, as their packaging may affect the quality of the drug or break the drug (in the case of tablets).
How to Find a Mail-Order Pharmacy
Prescriptions can be ordered through the mail from several big health programs. PBMs, or pharmacy benefits managers, are used by most large health plans. Caremark, Express Scripts, and MedCo are a few PBMs.
You should find out if your health insurance plan has a PBM and if it covers prescription drugs. This will help you get started ordering your medication online. Finding a mail-order pharmacy ultimately depends on your financial situation and health insurance.
Written by: Vivian Summer