CVS alternatives: where to get prescriptions, delivery and cheaper options
Looking for CVS alternatives? Maybe you want lower prices, faster delivery, or better customer service. This page shows practical options so you can pick what fits your life and budget.
Local and chain pharmacy options
Big chains like Walgreens, Rite Aid, Walmart and Target offer similar services to CVS: in-store pickup, drive-through windows, photo centers and basic health screenings. They often run different coupon deals and reward programs, so compare prices for the meds you need. Independent neighborhood pharmacies can surprise you—ask about price matching, personalized care, or free local delivery.
Online and mail-order alternatives
Mail-order pharmacies and reputable online pharmacies can cut costs, especially for maintenance meds. Look for sites that require a valid prescription, show a physical address, and display pharmacist contact info. Check pharmacy accreditations like NABP/VIPPS and read recent customer reviews. Delivery speed, refill reminders, and discreet packaging vary, so pick a service that matches your priorities.
Want cheaper meds? Use tools like GoodRx, coupons from manufacturers, or pharmacy discount cards. Many chains accept these coupons; some online pharmacies list coupon prices up front. For long-term prescriptions, ask your prescriber about generic options or 90-day supplies to reduce per-month costs.
If convenience matters, telemedicine plus electronic prescribing can replace a clinic visit and a pharmacy run. Telehealth services often partner with pharmacies for direct shipping. Before using telehealth, confirm how they handle controlled substances and privacy.
Insurance affects your choices. Check your plan’s pharmacy network, copays, and mail-order benefits. Some employers or insurers require specific pharmacies for lowest cost. If you’re uninsured, compare cash prices across stores and online; sometimes a membership pharmacy or warehouse club cuts the bill significantly.
Safety matters more than price. Always verify the pharmacy’s credentials, look for secure payment options, and never buy prescription meds from sites that skip prescriptions. Ask your pharmacist about drug interactions, side effects, and proper storage—those conversations can prevent problems.
Specialty meds and complex therapies may need specialty pharmacies that handle refrigeration, insurance prior authorization, and nurse support. If you use biologics or injectables, request a specialty pharmacy referral instead of a retail counter.
Finally, keep records. Track receipts, prescription numbers, lot numbers for biologics, and communication with pharmacists. A simple spreadsheet or app makes refills, insurance claims, and price checks faster. Switching pharmacies is normal—bring your medication list and last prescription to make the move smooth.
Use this page to explore our posts on specific alternatives, online pharmacies, and affordable medicine guides. Compare options, ask questions, and choose the path that keeps you healthy without breaking the bank.
Quick checklist: verify pharmacy accreditation and contact info, compare cash and insured prices, ask about generics and 90-day supplies, confirm shipping times and packaging, check refund and return policies, read recent customer reviews, and save receipts for insurance or tax records. If unsure, call local pharmacists and ask for a price quote before you switch—most will help you compare options in minutes and pick the best fit.