Seniors can get prescriptions delivered to their doors through various pharmacy delivery services. Mail order prescription companies send prescription drugs to patients through the mail, and brick-and-mortar pharmacies typically offer delivery services, often with same-day delivery available. Some meal delivery services also deliver prescription medications. Not all delivery services are available for all insurance plans, so it’s important to verify that the selected service works with the senior’s insurance provider. Also, certain types of medications can’t be delivered.

Prescription delivery offers a convenient option for seniors who can’t drive, have mobility issues or want to limit exposure to other people at the pharmacy. It also saves time by eliminating a trip to the pharmacy, and it can make it easier to ensure seniors have a continuous supply of essential prescription drugs.

Using a Prescription Mail Order Service

Mail order pharmacies have been around for years, but many new online pharmacy options ship orders to customers. Some of these services are only available in certain states, while others ship nationwide. Traditional pharmacies, such as CVS, offer mail service for prescription drugs. Other options are online pharmacies without storefronts. Amazon also provides prescription services through Amazon Pharmacy. Some insurance companies have preferred mail order prescription services that keep costs low. 

While convenient, this choice requires planning. The shipping can take 7 to 10 days for the prescription drugs to arrive from some mail pharmacy services. Expedited shipping is often available for an additional fee. These services also typically offer automatic refills for prescriptions to avoid gaps in taking medications.

Getting Deliveries Through Brick-and-Mortar Pharmacies

Seniors can also get prescriptions delivered from common brick-and-mortar pharmacies. Customers can often get same-day delivery if the order is placed by a certain time. Same-day delivery often comes with an extra fee, but health insurance sometimes covers that fee. Pharmacies also offer slower delivery for free. For example, Walgreens charges a fee for same-day delivery but offers 1- or 2-day delivery at no charge. Customers can also get other drugstore items with these deliveries in many cases. CVS, for instance, delivers over-the-counter medications and other essentials, such as tissues, with a pharmacy delivery.

Receiving Prescriptions Through Food Delivery Services

Seniors in some areas can receive their prescriptions through food delivery services, including Uber Eats, Postmates and DoorDash, usually for a small fee. These services typically partner with specific pharmacies. DoorDash works with Sam’s Club, for example. Customers can usually manage their prescription deliveries through the delivery service’s app or website.

However, these services don’t typically deliver controlled substances or other special prescriptions, such as refrigerated or compounded prescriptions, so not all of a senior’s medications may qualify. Some of these services also aren’t available for certain insurance options, including Medicare Part B or Medicaid. Verifying the prescription and insurance coverage before using one of these services can prevent delays in getting necessary prescription drugs.

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