Wal-Mart expands affordable drug program on clarkhoward.com

There's been so much press on Wal-Mart's decision to cut the price of prescription drugs yet again. The mega-retailer's original $4 prescription plan completely changed the face of the business. Generic meds now account for an overwhelming number of prescriptions in the United States. Wal-Mart played a big role in breaking the stranglehold that Big Pharma's TV ads had on the market.

Now Wal-Mart's program is being expanded to allow a 90-day supply for $10. Target has immediately matched the deal. While you'll save $2 over 3 months, Wal-Mart and Target benefit by saving on the cost of labor. Wal-Mart is also making its private label brand, Equate, available on the list of approved drugs.

Meanwhile, the June edition of Consumer Reports names the best pharmacies based on price and service. Costco is tops when it comes to saving on brand-name drugs. The warehouse club can be hundreds of dollars cheaper over the life of a prescription than the big chain drugstores like Walgreens and Rite-Aid. The beauty of Costco's pharmacy is that you do not have to be a member to use it. Some Costcos even have a separate pharmacy entrance for non-members to cut down on the risk of shoplifting.

If you're looking for the best service, Consumer Reports says you should try an independently owned pharmacy. Indies get a score of 92 out of 100 for service, while Costco only gets a respectable 85. Meanwhile, if you use a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) through your work, Cigna and Aetna are dead last. They get the lowest marks in the shopping experience category. On the flip side, Caremark has been singled out as the best PBM.

What others are saying

Caremark offers Cusotmer NoService
"Caremark has been singled out as the best PBM" is by far the most misleading comment I have ever seen... I have been trying to fill 2 prescriptions for my wife; I have called 3 times, my doctor has called or faxed them 7 times, I've emailed them 3 times, and they say they haven't been contacted by the doctor. These are maintenance drugs needed for my wife's asthma; our nice doctor has given us samples to hold her over. The kicker is, I've also been laid off by company, and insurance runs out Feb 28. Maybe they are waiting until then so they can refuse to honor their so-called "commitment" (likely the only commitment it to the shareholders).
By Roger the Frustrated @ 02/11/09 01:09:57 AMreport abuse
Caremark sucks
After getting fed up with Caremark's extraordinarily lousy customer service, I started having my prescriptions refilled out of my pocket from a local pharmacy. I found that my out of pocket expenses DID NOT INCREASE by doing this! I'm not sure what my company is paying Caremark for their prescription coverage, but it is NOT worth it!
By Mark @ 01/23/09 07:48:02 PMreport abuse
Caremark is a rip off
Caremark sucks. They shipped me prescription refills that I did not order, and billed me over $300, for refills I did not order. I refused shipment. Now they have a collection agency after me. They offer no remediation for their mistakes. Their customer service is among the WORST I have experienced!
By Mark @ 01/23/09 07:39:12 PMreport abuse
Caremark
"Caremark has been singled out as the best PBM"

ROTFLMAO. They are far and away the *worst* pharmaceutical supplier I have ever had the misfortune to be stuck with.
By Peter @ 12/27/08 08:47:30 PMreport abuse
prescription costs
I have an insurance plan for drugs; however, I find that some drugs I use are cheaper at Costco and others at Walmart Mail Order. Now I check their prices before I use my plan. These savings are sometimes HUGE. For my Mother who lives in another state I use Costco Mail order for some of her drugs or Walmart Mail order for others. Always check the prices online first.
By jayge @ 11/12/08 10:40:47 AMreport abuse
Generics: Its Your Body
Reading the comments about generics I have the following reactions: 1) true generics can be cheaper as they don't pay for the R&D costs 2) FDA requires bioequivalence which means the rate and extent of the absorption are roughly similar, but this is in a range from 80% of the branded up to 125% over the branded, therefore they are not therapeutically equivalent 3) be SURE your pharmacy does not having you switch between generics, there are no tests or regulations to be sure those are equivalent, and 4) pharmacies are out to save bucks as well, so be sure you know what you are doing... its your body !
By Chris @ 06/08/08 08:47:19 AMreport abuse
Publix
Publix has free antibiotics. You can't beat that! And their customer service is always outstanding.
By jennifer @ 06/03/08 04:38:07 PMreport abuse
Walgreens Rx Discount Club
First of all there's an annual fee, something like $13 per household member. I'm a CPA, I checked and on some Rx's it is a savings, but WATCH OUT. Walgreens little system can't determine if your insurance or their club is the least cost, and the like to just scan 'em all the same. You have to
By Michael Stapp @ 06/02/08 07:32:22 PMreport abuse
Medco blocks $3.00 prescriptions
Medco has sent letters advising members that they cannot fill a prescription more than twice at their local pharmacy. The say that they will match discount pharmacies, but don't have a mechanism to do this. I have detailed this at www.medco-sucks.info .
By Vman @ 05/29/08 09:37:25 AMreport abuse
Costco
Costco has their medicine prices on their web site under Pharmacy. Also they will give you the price over the phone.
By howard g, @ 05/25/08 10:56:52 AMreport abuse
Cosco
Cosco only accepts Amer Express cards, no other. Otherwise must pay cash, no checks. Hard to find out ahead of time what will be total cost to have enough money to pay for them whem total is 100, 300, etc ##. Generally hard to get to their locations and even harder to find a parking place when you do.
By Susan Moritz @ 05/22/08 03:47:12 PMreport abuse
Costco
I've used Costco for several years...some 90 day RX items are > 100% CHEAPER THAN via mail order provider Medco (who also administers the State of Texas Rx program). I believe the state program would save 'bigtime' money by using Costco.

Thanks, Clark...like Ivory, you're 99.47% pure!
By Dewey U @ 05/22/08 12:49:05 AMreport abuse
Clarifications from a pharmacist
1. To the person who said generic drugs are less potent: That is not true--these drugs have the same active ingredient in identical quantities and have to show the FDA that they are equivalent in absorption before they can be marketed. They are cheaper because generic manufacturers don't pay for research and development.

2. To the person who said local pharmacies are ripping them off by charging a copay for each month: The lovely company CVS/Caremark reimburses us worse than any other company I have seen and local pharmacies are not allowed to dispense a 90 day supply with a reduced copay per our contracts. We are not allowed--this ensures them mail order business, and decreases patient access to a local pharmacist who can know them and their medications.

Pharmacies are not the problem with drug prices--it is a combination of manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers such as Caremark and Medco. Walmart is actually making more money on some drugs selling them for $4 than they would submitting them to insurance companies.
By Leigh S. @ 05/20/08 10:44:30 PMreport abuse
Bargain Rx drug prices
Costco and Fred Meyer (Kroger) are far and away the best price/service combo in the Northwest. Using my medicare part D, these 30 and 90 day prices for generics cost me only $1 or 4 out of pocket.
As noted by others WalMart is a disaster re customer service and competence in filling Rxs.
By Bob W @ 05/20/08 08:34:49 PMreport abuse
CAREMARK
We have caremark thru my hubby's work they are great. My drug here at CVS cost a whopping $350.00 per month or $30.00 my copay, but with Caremark I get 90 day supply for... $30.00. Disgrace the drug stores can rip off folks who need their meds !! where are the laws to protect folks with NO insurance?? not right..
By KATIEP987@AOL.COM @ 05/20/08 07:42:51 PMreport abuse
India
What particular website or address or firm in India? Ray
By Drew @ 05/20/08 04:43:40 PMreport abuse
prices
Both Kroger and Publix will match Walmart prices IF asked.
By Mary Jane @ 05/20/08 03:34:07 PMreport abuse
meds
you have recommended canada for meds and ever since then I've used canada! Do you still? It has proved very reasonable!!
By leigh galey @ 05/20/08 02:38:35 PMreport abuse
Top service at Snyders
One thing Clark left out was that the midwest pharmacy chain Snyders was rated highly in customer service and having drugs in stock.
By Lindy @ 05/20/08 12:52:39 PMreport abuse
SAM'S PHARMACY
The price a Sam's is lower than most if you have to pay the whole thing out of pocket. But; they make a lot of mistakes and every time you go back to complain about the generic instead of the brand name your doctor ordered or that you were shorted one or two pills each month, the answer is always; So sorry, you took the medicine out of the store we can not be responsible after it leaves our store. So now you have to stand at the counter with the line backing up behind you and open each and every bottle to be sure the right product is in it. And count to see if they gave you 30 or maybe just 29 this month. While the line behind you grows longer.
By MER @ 05/20/08 11:54:39 AMreport abuse
Perscription prices
Thank you for being here to help the consumers! You are a credit to the community.
By Albert Soskin @ 05/20/08 11:47:18 AMreport abuse
Affordable Drug Programs
King Soopers in Colorado will match Costco's drug prices also. All you have to do is print a copy of the drug prices from Costco's web site and take it with you to pick up your prescription and they will match the price. My dog had BP meds and it reduces the price from $45 to $6.38.
By Georgia @ 05/20/08 11:32:38 AMreport abuse
Cheap Prescripts
For all the " dont do its" posted, I have ordered from INDIA for 2 years, drugs are 100% the same and about 80-90% cheaper...very dependable!
By Ray @ 05/20/08 11:04:07 AMreport abuse
walmart
I get my scripts from Walmart because it's so close to home, but there is usually a problem. They often tell me I'm not in the system. Recently they shorted me on pills because "they were out", then the next refill wasn't what the doctor ordered because of their poor record keeping. I only got 18 of a 30 because the first order was shorted. Once they changed shifts, the first girl put my script in a DRAWER and went home, leaving the next girl baffled, trying to find it. ?? I think I just talked myself out of going back.
By MB @ 05/20/08 09:28:42 AMreport abuse
walmart
used to get scrips at wm always had something wrong went to walgreens so much nicer and faster, aways open, one script we get w/ins is free beat that WM
By Gerald @ 05/20/08 09:12:16 AMreport abuse
Pharmacies
I'm amazed Aetna came in so low. I've never had anything but quick service on my 90-day prescriptions and haven't had to pay a penny out of pocket with my insurance with them.
By Cindy M @ 05/20/08 07:34:54 AMreport abuse
W-Mart
Twice now I have used Wal-Mart pharmacies. In GA and in IL. The customer service was HORRIBLE! Long lines, just to drop off, forget picking up..longer.. They didn't have the drug, and it wasn't something unusual. Only two people, including the Pharmacist working behind the counter. Then they pulled someone from regular checkout to run the register, (they didn't know how the Pharmacy worked)they have to check you out through two seperate registers for every Rx. Once, I forgave them, the second time is a pattern. I won't be back.
By Traci in GA @ 05/20/08 07:07:24 AMreport abuse
Costco
That is too bad that they do not have store near where I live.
By Nancy @ 05/19/08 11:58:07 PMreport abuse
Most Available Generic Selection
Have tried them all and price is not the only consideration that matters but most important is the availability of the Generic Medication needed. And the winner is K-Mart. If you do not believe then all you must is do your homework.
By fcmarrastia @ 05/19/08 11:43:17 PMreport abuse
Non Generic Drugs
Can you get 90/day supply of non generic drugs for less at Wal Mart or Costco?
By Lynn @ 05/19/08 11:29:27 PMreport abuse
Caremark
Drug prices at Caremark are usually twice the charge when compared to Independent Pharmacies and Customer Service is next to Bottom of the line. I have been fighting with Caremark to correct the mistakes they made almost five months for now and still find difficulty. Their customer Service is at a call center and every time I have problem to make them understand. I am waiting to opt out as soon as I get a chance.
By Lax Sawkar @ 05/19/08 09:46:20 PMreport abuse
Pet Meds
I used to buy meds for my dog online from www.drsfostersmith.com. You have to get your DR to write a prescription. Mine vet was reluctant at first as they obviously make a lot of money off them.
By Kris @ 05/19/08 08:52:53 PMreport abuse
Drugs at Costco
I recently went to Cosco and bought my drugs, I couldn't give them a check unless I was a member. Couldn't use my credit card. Had to pay cash. I had to go join so I could write a check. I wish I had known I needed cash.
By Dot Depace @ 05/19/08 08:07:27 PMreport abuse
Walmart SUCKS
Walmart will have to do a lot more than sell cheap prescriptions to be considered a FAIR store and workplace!
By Brenda Myhaver @ 05/19/08 07:24:33 PMreport abuse
Pet Meds
Hi, could you please tell me if there is a place where I can buy discount pet meds. The vet charges $56.00 for a fifteen day supply for heart medicine???
By Francie @ 05/19/08 07:18:39 PMreport abuse
Kroger
Kroger has the exact same $4/30 or $10/90 as Wal-Mart. Plus if it's on WM's list and not on Kroger's, they will price match it.

All the same benefits without having to patronize the "small town killer"...Wal-Mart that is.
By Larry @ 05/19/08 06:58:07 PMreport abuse
LOCATION OF COSTCO
WE ARE MEMBERS OF COSTCO IN GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN,, BUT THERE ARE NO COSTO'S IN BRADENTON, FL. ANY CANCE OF AN ADDITION TO THE AREA
By HELEN ALFLEN @ 05/19/08 04:45:44 PMreport abuse
Advair
Where can I purchase the asthma medicine, ADVAIR?
By Judith @ 05/19/08 04:36:11 PMreport abuse
Advair
Where can I purchase the asthma medicine Advair? The last time I bought it, it was $200.00.
By Judith @ 05/19/08 04:34:26 PMreport abuse
"Big Pharma"
Clark, stop beating up on "Big Pharma". If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have any life saving drugs, period! They, like you, need to make a profit in order to stay in business. Their profits are small compared to the huge investments they make ($1 Billion per drug that makes it to market).
By Jim @ 05/19/08 04:23:46 PMreport abuse
cheap generic drugs
Sure it is nice to get cheaper drugs. However, in light of all the recent publicity regarding impure drugs from China, how can anyone be sure the cheapest drugs are safe and inspected? Is buying the cheapest really the best way to go?
By Eydie @ 05/19/08 03:49:58 PMreport abuse
Prescription (affinity) plans are GREAT for some
Prescription (affinity) plans are GREAT for some folks who don't have any health insurance coverage. When my health ins was canceled in error (another story I was recovering from quad bypass) - the pharmacy that I used and another local that I called each gave me the BS that I had a prescription plan and that now I have to pay the U&C price. I knew that I wasn't previously paying for ANY prescription plan, so I spent the day online and finally came up with the pscard ( pscard.com ) which I then took to the store and "saved" $250 on a prescription that I was paying $53.50 for before and Low and behold - with this "prescription card" it was also $53.50 .

So the bottom line a I see it, if you are the most in need of financial help, they'll charge you an arm and a leg for something that someone else who is smart enuf or lucky enuf or has some other health coverage, doesn't have to pay. I'm actually surprised that Clark hasn't done an expose on this subject.
By Hersey @ 05/19/08 03:30:56 PMreport abuse
AARP United Health Prescription Plan
AARP-UH paid only $1 for one of my prescriptions. The cost of the med was $159.84 and I had to pay $158.84.

Big Deal!!! Upset me very much.
By Gramster @ 05/19/08 03:29:01 PMreport abuse
$10 for 90 days
Here in Atlanta, Kroger also has the 90 day supply for $10 program.
By Carole @ 05/19/08 03:27:23 PMreport abuse
Generics
In Maine, the local Hannaford supermarkets have a similar $4 plan brand named for them, but they also honored the Walmart plan, but you HAD to ask for it !!
By Hersey @ 05/19/08 03:17:24 PMreport abuse
Work From Home Opportunties
My wife is looking for a way to earn money from home over the internet. There are so many scams out there. Do you have any companies that you can reccomend?
By Jim Bartoli @ 05/19/08 03:00:03 PMreport abuse
Prescriptions from Costco
Great, but we don't have Costco in our area, Indiana
By Margaret @ 05/19/08 02:42:10 PMreport abuse
Bargain Rxs
Here in NC Kroger's pharmacy has the $4.00 generic plan, too. Haven't used it, but saw it advertised.
By Veggiechick @ 05/19/08 02:06:40 PMreport abuse
Humana
I discovered that if the generic does not seem to work as well for you Humana was willing to substitute with the brand name. All I did was to simply request that they do so. No argument from them. Kudos to Humana
By Carol -Medicare Advantage Program @ 05/19/08 02:06:36 PMreport abuse
Caremark
Since CVS bought Caremark they raised the prices beyond reach....So as soon as I can, I am opting out of Caremark and just using Wmt and Costco...buying generic mostly....Much cheaper than paying the exhorbinant rates to be allowed to use Caremark!!
By Mary Sieber @ 05/19/08 01:50:31 PMreport abuse
Drug List
Is there a list of the drugs somewhere that sell for 10.00 or less for a month supply?
By Dennis @ 05/19/08 01:46:06 PMreport abuse
IRS rebate
we were supposed to have our stimulous rebate direct deposited on may 8. nothing yet. did anyone get theres on time?
By shelley @ 05/19/08 01:31:46 PMreport abuse
Target
Target, whereas not offering a 3 month supply of their $4 meds, DO have the
B E S T customer service I have ever experienced. Gotta love 'em.
By Charles T @ 05/19/08 01:13:46 PMreport abuse
Caremark
My company used Caremark and dumped them for Medco. I found their customer service horrible. This was pre CVS merger, so I hope they have improved.
By Ed @ 05/19/08 01:06:12 PMreport abuse
Cheap eyeglasses
Clark...they are the BOMB!!! These are the same as the fancy opticians, but cheap! Fantastic! TY TY TY!!!
By Brad @ 05/08/08 01:39:14 AMreport abuse
low prices-drugs
escapees RV club with members world wide-have a very very inexpensive drug plan for members. www.escapees.com
By hugh gardner @ 05/07/08 05:10:00 PMreport abuse
Lowest prescription prices
Wal Mart's 90 day/$10 program for generics simply cannot be beat for generics. Not even Costco can match those prices for most generics, and they refuse to do so!
By Steve Bridges @ 05/07/08 05:00:14 PMreport abuse
Pharmacy Plans
Humana surprised us with tier level co-payments. If your MD prescibes a highly advertised RX, we pay a $50 co-pay. Generics are sometimes less potent than their mainstream equivalent, so if a person is forced to take generic, and doesn't seem to be as effective, by all means, the person's MD should be made aware.
By Mike @ 05/07/08 03:09:16 PMreport abuse
Publix
Publix supermarkets down here in Florida has released a list of antibiotics that you can get a free 30 day supply of.
By Wendi @ 05/07/08 11:32:53 AMreport abuse
Pharmacy ratings
In his 5/6 program, Clark singled out independent pharmacies as the best for service, knowledge, and speed according to the latest Consumer Reports magazine. I was disappointed that he did not also mention the only other supermarket to earn CR's top rank in service, knowledge, and speed: Publix. (In fairness, I have to confess that he may have mentioned Publix, but I did not hear it; I had to turn off the radio so I could continue to provide JD Power award-winning service as a Publix pharmacist.)
By Peter @ 05/07/08 06:48:10 AMreport abuse

Caremark offers Cusotmer NoService

"Caremark has been singled out as the best PBM" is by far the most misleading comment I have ever seen... I have been trying to fill 2 prescriptions for my wife; I have called 3 times, my doctor has called or faxed them 7 times, I've emailed them 3 times, and they say they haven't been contacted by the doctor. These are maintenance drugs needed for my wife's asthma; our nice doctor has given us samples to hold her over. The kicker is, I've also been laid off by company, and insurance runs out Feb 28. Maybe they are waiting until then so they can refuse to honor their so-called "commitment" (likely the only commitment it to the shareholders).

By Roger the Frustrated @ 02/11/09 01:09:57 AMreport abuse

Caremark sucks

After getting fed up with Caremark's extraordinarily lousy customer service, I started having my prescriptions refilled out of my pocket from a local pharmacy. I found that my out of pocket expenses DID NOT INCREASE by doing this! I'm not sure what my company is paying Caremark for their prescription coverage, but it is NOT worth it!

By Mark @ 01/23/09 07:48:02 PMreport abuse

Caremark is a rip off

Caremark sucks. They shipped me prescription refills that I did not order, and billed me over $300, for refills I did not order. I refused shipment. Now they have a collection agency after me. They offer no remediation for their mistakes. Their customer service is among the WORST I have experienced!

By Mark @ 01/23/09 07:39:12 PMreport abuse

Caremark

"Caremark has been singled out as the best PBM"

ROTFLMAO. They are far and away the *worst* pharmaceutical supplier I have ever had the misfortune to be stuck with.

By Peter @ 12/27/08 08:47:30 PMreport abuse

prescription costs

I have an insurance plan for drugs; however, I find that some drugs I use are cheaper at Costco and others at Walmart Mail Order. Now I check their prices before I use my plan. These savings are sometimes HUGE. For my Mother who lives in another state I use Costco Mail order for some of her drugs or Walmart Mail order for others. Always check the prices online first.

By jayge @ 11/12/08 10:40:47 AMreport abuse

Generics: Its Your Body

Reading the comments about generics I have the following reactions: 1) true generics can be cheaper as they don't pay for the R&D costs 2) FDA requires bioequivalence which means the rate and extent of the absorption are roughly similar, but this is in a range from 80% of the branded up to 125% over the branded, therefore they are not therapeutically equivalent 3) be SURE your pharmacy does not having you switch between generics, there are no tests or regulations to be sure those are equivalent, and 4) pharmacies are out to save bucks as well, so be sure you know what you are doing... its your body !

By Chris @ 06/08/08 08:47:19 AMreport abuse

Publix

Publix has free antibiotics. You can't beat that! And their customer service is always outstanding.

By jennifer @ 06/03/08 04:38:07 PMreport abuse

Walgreens Rx Discount Club

First of all there's an annual fee, something like $13 per household member. I'm a CPA, I checked and on some Rx's it is a savings, but WATCH OUT. Walgreens little system can't determine if your insurance or their club is the least cost, and the like to just scan 'em all the same. You have to

By Michael Stapp @ 06/02/08 07:32:22 PMreport abuse

Medco blocks $3.00 prescriptions

Medco has sent letters advising members that they cannot fill a prescription more than twice at their local pharmacy. The say that they will match discount pharmacies, but don't have a mechanism to do this. I have detailed this at www.medco-sucks.info .

By Vman @ 05/29/08 09:37:25 AMreport abuse

Costco

Costco has their medicine prices on their web site under Pharmacy. Also they will give you the price over the phone.

By howard g, @ 05/25/08 10:56:52 AMreport abuse

Cosco

Cosco only accepts Amer Express cards, no other. Otherwise must pay cash, no checks. Hard to find out ahead of time what will be total cost to have enough money to pay for them whem total is 100, 300, etc ##. Generally hard to get to their locations and even harder to find a parking place when you do.

By Susan Moritz @ 05/22/08 03:47:12 PMreport abuse

I've used Costco for several years...some 90 day RX items are > 100% CHEAPER THAN via mail order provider Medco (who also administers the State of Texas Rx program). I believe the state program would save 'bigtime' money by using Costco.

Thanks, Clark...like Ivory, you're 99.47% pure!

By Dewey U @ 05/22/08 12:49:05 AMreport abuse

Clarifications from a pharmacist

1. To the person who said generic drugs are less potent: That is not true--these drugs have the same active ingredient in identical quantities and have to show the FDA that they are equivalent in absorption before they can be marketed. They are cheaper because generic manufacturers don't pay for research and development.

2. To the person who said local pharmacies are ripping them off by charging a copay for each month: The lovely company CVS/Caremark reimburses us worse than any other company I have seen and local pharmacies are not allowed to dispense a 90 day supply with a reduced copay per our contracts. We are not allowed--this ensures them mail order business, and decreases patient access to a local pharmacist who can know them and their medications.

Pharmacies are not the problem with drug prices--it is a combination of manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers such as Caremark and Medco. Walmart is actually making more money on some drugs selling them for $4 than they would submitting them to insurance companies.

By Leigh S. @ 05/20/08 10:44:30 PMreport abuse

Bargain Rx drug prices

Costco and Fred Meyer (Kroger) are far and away the best price/service combo in the Northwest. Using my medicare part D, these 30 and 90 day prices for generics cost me only $1 or 4 out of pocket.
As noted by others WalMart is a disaster re customer service and competence in filling Rxs.

By Bob W @ 05/20/08 08:34:49 PMreport abuse

CAREMARK

We have caremark thru my hubby's work they are great. My drug here at CVS cost a whopping $350.00 per month or $30.00 my copay, but with Caremark I get 90 day supply for... $30.00. Disgrace the drug stores can rip off folks who need their meds !! where are the laws to protect folks with NO insurance?? not right..

By KATIEP987@AOL.COM @ 05/20/08 07:42:51 PMreport abuse

India

What particular website or address or firm in India? Ray

By Drew @ 05/20/08 04:43:40 PMreport abuse

prices

Both Kroger and Publix will match Walmart prices IF asked.

By Mary Jane @ 05/20/08 03:34:07 PMreport abuse

meds

you have recommended canada for meds and ever since then I've used canada! Do you still? It has proved very reasonable!!

By leigh galey @ 05/20/08 02:38:35 PMreport abuse

Top service at Snyders

One thing Clark left out was that the midwest pharmacy chain Snyders was rated highly in customer service and having drugs in stock.

By Lindy @ 05/20/08 12:52:39 PMreport abuse

SAM'S PHARMACY

The price a Sam's is lower than most if you have to pay the whole thing out of pocket. But; they make a lot of mistakes and every time you go back to complain about the generic instead of the brand name your doctor ordered or that you were shorted one or two pills each month, the answer is always; So sorry, you took the medicine out of the store we can not be responsible after it leaves our store. So now you have to stand at the counter with the line backing up behind you and open each and every bottle to be sure the right product is in it. And count to see if they gave you 30 or maybe just 29 this month. While the line behind you grows longer.

By MER @ 05/20/08 11:54:39 AMreport abuse

Perscription prices

Thank you for being here to help the consumers! You are a credit to the community.

By Albert Soskin @ 05/20/08 11:47:18 AMreport abuse

Affordable Drug Programs

King Soopers in Colorado will match Costco's drug prices also. All you have to do is print a copy of the drug prices from Costco's web site and take it with you to pick up your prescription and they will match the price. My dog had BP meds and it reduces the price from $45 to $6.38.

By Georgia @ 05/20/08 11:32:38 AMreport abuse

Cheap Prescripts

For all the " dont do its" posted, I have ordered from INDIA for 2 years, drugs are 100% the same and about 80-90% cheaper...very dependable!

By Ray @ 05/20/08 11:04:07 AMreport abuse

walmart

I get my scripts from Walmart because it's so close to home, but there is usually a problem. They often tell me I'm not in the system. Recently they shorted me on pills because "they were out", then the next refill wasn't what the doctor ordered because of their poor record keeping. I only got 18 of a 30 because the first order was shorted. Once they changed shifts, the first girl put my script in a DRAWER and went home, leaving the next girl baffled, trying to find it. ?? I think I just talked myself out of going back.

By MB @ 05/20/08 09:28:42 AMreport abuse

used to get scrips at wm always had something wrong went to walgreens so much nicer and faster, aways open, one script we get w/ins is free beat that WM

By Gerald @ 05/20/08 09:12:16 AMreport abuse

Pharmacies

I'm amazed Aetna came in so low. I've never had anything but quick service on my 90-day prescriptions and haven't had to pay a penny out of pocket with my insurance with them.

By Cindy M @ 05/20/08 07:34:54 AMreport abuse

W-Mart

Twice now I have used Wal-Mart pharmacies. In GA and in IL. The customer service was HORRIBLE! Long lines, just to drop off, forget picking up..longer.. They didn't have the drug, and it wasn't something unusual. Only two people, including the Pharmacist working behind the counter. Then they pulled someone from regular checkout to run the register, (they didn't know how the Pharmacy worked)they have to check you out through two seperate registers for every Rx. Once, I forgave them, the second time is a pattern. I won't be back.

By Traci in GA @ 05/20/08 07:07:24 AMreport abuse

That is too bad that they do not have store near where I live.

By Nancy @ 05/19/08 11:58:07 PMreport abuse

Most Available Generic Selection

Have tried them all and price is not the only consideration that matters but most important is the availability of the Generic Medication needed. And the winner is K-Mart. If you do not believe then all you must is do your homework.

By fcmarrastia @ 05/19/08 11:43:17 PMreport abuse

Non Generic Drugs

Can you get 90/day supply of non generic drugs for less at Wal Mart or Costco?

By Lynn @ 05/19/08 11:29:27 PMreport abuse

Drug prices at Caremark are usually twice the charge when compared to Independent Pharmacies and Customer Service is next to Bottom of the line. I have been fighting with Caremark to correct the mistakes they made almost five months for now and still find difficulty. Their customer Service is at a call center and every time I have problem to make them understand. I am waiting to opt out as soon as I get a chance.

By Lax Sawkar @ 05/19/08 09:46:20 PMreport abuse

Pet Meds

I used to buy meds for my dog online from www.drsfostersmith.com. You have to get your DR to write a prescription. Mine vet was reluctant at first as they obviously make a lot of money off them.

By Kris @ 05/19/08 08:52:53 PMreport abuse

Drugs at Costco

I recently went to Cosco and bought my drugs, I couldn't give them a check unless I was a member. Couldn't use my credit card. Had to pay cash. I had to go join so I could write a check. I wish I had known I needed cash.

By Dot Depace @ 05/19/08 08:07:27 PMreport abuse

Walmart SUCKS

Walmart will have to do a lot more than sell cheap prescriptions to be considered a FAIR store and workplace!

By Brenda Myhaver @ 05/19/08 07:24:33 PMreport abuse

Hi, could you please tell me if there is a place where I can buy discount pet meds. The vet charges $56.00 for a fifteen day supply for heart medicine???

By Francie @ 05/19/08 07:18:39 PMreport abuse

Kroger

Kroger has the exact same $4/30 or $10/90 as Wal-Mart. Plus if it's on WM's list and not on Kroger's, they will price match it.

All the same benefits without having to patronize the "small town killer"...Wal-Mart that is.

By Larry @ 05/19/08 06:58:07 PMreport abuse

LOCATION OF COSTCO

WE ARE MEMBERS OF COSTCO IN GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN,, BUT THERE ARE NO COSTO'S IN BRADENTON, FL. ANY CANCE OF AN ADDITION TO THE AREA

By HELEN ALFLEN @ 05/19/08 04:45:44 PMreport abuse

Advair

Where can I purchase the asthma medicine, ADVAIR?

By Judith @ 05/19/08 04:36:11 PMreport abuse

Where can I purchase the asthma medicine Advair? The last time I bought it, it was $200.00.

By Judith @ 05/19/08 04:34:26 PMreport abuse

"Big Pharma"

Clark, stop beating up on "Big Pharma". If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have any life saving drugs, period! They, like you, need to make a profit in order to stay in business. Their profits are small compared to the huge investments they make ($1 Billion per drug that makes it to market).

By Jim @ 05/19/08 04:23:46 PMreport abuse

cheap generic drugs

Sure it is nice to get cheaper drugs. However, in light of all the recent publicity regarding impure drugs from China, how can anyone be sure the cheapest drugs are safe and inspected? Is buying the cheapest really the best way to go?

By Eydie @ 05/19/08 03:49:58 PMreport abuse

Prescription (affinity) plans are GREAT for some

Prescription (affinity) plans are GREAT for some folks who don't have any health insurance coverage. When my health ins was canceled in error (another story I was recovering from quad bypass) - the pharmacy that I used and another local that I called each gave me the BS that I had a prescription plan and that now I have to pay the U&C price. I knew that I wasn't previously paying for ANY prescription plan, so I spent the day online and finally came up with the pscard ( pscard.com ) which I then took to the store and "saved" $250 on a prescription that I was paying $53.50 for before and Low and behold - with this "prescription card" it was also $53.50 .

So the bottom line a I see it, if you are the most in need of financial help, they'll charge you an arm and a leg for something that someone else who is smart enuf or lucky enuf or has some other health coverage, doesn't have to pay. I'm actually surprised that Clark hasn't done an expose on this subject.

By Hersey @ 05/19/08 03:30:56 PMreport abuse

AARP United Health Prescription Plan

AARP-UH paid only $1 for one of my prescriptions. The cost of the med was $159.84 and I had to pay $158.84.

Big Deal!!! Upset me very much.

By Gramster @ 05/19/08 03:29:01 PMreport abuse

$10 for 90 days

Here in Atlanta, Kroger also has the 90 day supply for $10 program.

By Carole @ 05/19/08 03:27:23 PMreport abuse

Generics

In Maine, the local Hannaford supermarkets have a similar $4 plan brand named for them, but they also honored the Walmart plan, but you HAD to ask for it !!

By Hersey @ 05/19/08 03:17:24 PMreport abuse

Work From Home Opportunties

My wife is looking for a way to earn money from home over the internet. There are so many scams out there. Do you have any companies that you can reccomend?

By Jim Bartoli @ 05/19/08 03:00:03 PMreport abuse

Prescriptions from Costco

Great, but we don't have Costco in our area, Indiana

By Margaret @ 05/19/08 02:42:10 PMreport abuse

Bargain Rxs

Here in NC Kroger's pharmacy has the $4.00 generic plan, too. Haven't used it, but saw it advertised.

By Veggiechick @ 05/19/08 02:06:40 PMreport abuse

Humana

I discovered that if the generic does not seem to work as well for you Humana was willing to substitute with the brand name. All I did was to simply request that they do so. No argument from them. Kudos to Humana

By Carol -Medicare Advantage Program @ 05/19/08 02:06:36 PMreport abuse

Since CVS bought Caremark they raised the prices beyond reach....So as soon as I can, I am opting out of Caremark and just using Wmt and Costco...buying generic mostly....Much cheaper than paying the exhorbinant rates to be allowed to use Caremark!!

By Mary Sieber @ 05/19/08 01:50:31 PMreport abuse

Drug List

Is there a list of the drugs somewhere that sell for 10.00 or less for a month supply?

By Dennis @ 05/19/08 01:46:06 PMreport abuse

IRS rebate

we were supposed to have our stimulous rebate direct deposited on may 8. nothing yet. did anyone get theres on time?

By shelley @ 05/19/08 01:31:46 PMreport abuse

Target

Target, whereas not offering a 3 month supply of their $4 meds, DO have the
B E S T customer service I have ever experienced. Gotta love 'em.

By Charles T @ 05/19/08 01:13:46 PMreport abuse

My company used Caremark and dumped them for Medco. I found their customer service horrible. This was pre CVS merger, so I hope they have improved.

By Ed @ 05/19/08 01:06:12 PMreport abuse

Cheap eyeglasses

Clark...they are the BOMB!!! These are the same as the fancy opticians, but cheap! Fantastic! TY TY TY!!!

By Brad @ 05/08/08 01:39:14 AMreport abuse

low prices-drugs

escapees RV club with members world wide-have a very very inexpensive drug plan for members. www.escapees.com

By hugh gardner @ 05/07/08 05:10:00 PMreport abuse

Lowest prescription prices

Wal Mart's 90 day/$10 program for generics simply cannot be beat for generics. Not even Costco can match those prices for most generics, and they refuse to do so!

By Steve Bridges @ 05/07/08 05:00:14 PMreport abuse

Pharmacy Plans

Humana surprised us with tier level co-payments. If your MD prescibes a highly advertised RX, we pay a $50 co-pay. Generics are sometimes less potent than their mainstream equivalent, so if a person is forced to take generic, and doesn't seem to be as effective, by all means, the person's MD should be made aware.

By Mike @ 05/07/08 03:09:16 PMreport abuse

Publix supermarkets down here in Florida has released a list of antibiotics that you can get a free 30 day supply of.

By Wendi @ 05/07/08 11:32:53 AMreport abuse

Pharmacy ratings

In his 5/6 program, Clark singled out independent pharmacies as the best for service, knowledge, and speed according to the latest Consumer Reports magazine. I was disappointed that he did not also mention the only other supermarket to earn CR's top rank in service, knowledge, and speed: Publix. (In fairness, I have to confess that he may have mentioned Publix, but I did not hear it; I had to turn off the radio so I could continue to provide JD Power award-winning service as a Publix pharmacist.)

By Peter @ 05/07/08 06:48:10 AMreport abuse

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May 06, 2008 -- Wal-Mart expands affordable drug program

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