How does mail order pharmacy work

Mail order pharmacies, also known as mail service pharmacies or online pharmacies, are pharmacies that dispense prescription medications through the mail or online. Here's how they typically work:

  1. Patient registration: The patient registers with the mail order pharmacy by providing their personal and insurance information.
  2. Prescription submission: The patient's healthcare provider submits the prescription to the mail order pharmacy electronically or by fax.
  3. Verification: The mail order pharmacy verifies the prescription with the patient's insurance company to ensure coverage and confirm the medication is not contraindicated.
  4. Fulfillment: The mail order pharmacy fills the prescription and packages the medication in a secure, tamper-evident package.
  5. Shipping: The package is shipped to the patient's home or a designated location, usually via USPS, UPS, or FedEx.
  6. Patient notification: The patient receives a notification, usually via email or phone, when their medication is shipped and can track the package online.
  7. Patient follow-up: The mail order pharmacy may contact the patient to confirm receipt of the medication, answer questions, or provide medication counseling.

Benefits of mail order pharmacies:

  1. Convenience: Patients can receive their medications at home, eliminating the need to visit a physical pharmacy.
  2. Cost savings: Mail order pharmacies often offer lower prices than traditional pharmacies, especially for long-term medications.
  3. Increased accessibility: Patients with mobility issues or living in remote areas can still access their medications.
  4. Improved medication adherence: Mail order pharmacies can help patients stay on track with their medication regimens by sending reminders and tracking refill requests.

Types of mail order pharmacies:

  1. Traditional mail order pharmacies: These pharmacies operate independently and may offer a wide range of medications.
  2. Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs): PBMs are companies that manage pharmacy benefits for health insurance plans. They often offer mail order pharmacy services to their clients.
  3. Online pharmacies: These pharmacies operate exclusively online and may offer a limited selection of medications.

When choosing a mail order pharmacy, patients should consider the following factors:

  1. Licensing and accreditation: Ensure the pharmacy is licensed and accredited by a reputable organization, such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
  2. Insurance coverage: Verify that the pharmacy is part of your insurance plan's network.
  3. Medication selection: Check if the pharmacy carries the medications you need.
  4. Customer service: Evaluate the pharmacy's customer service and support options.
  5. Shipping and delivery: Consider the pharmacy's shipping and delivery options, including estimated delivery times and tracking information.

By understanding how mail order pharmacies work, patients can make informed decisions about their medication management and take advantage of the benefits they offer.