Are Low-Cost Pharmacies Causing Pharmageddon?

Advantages of Mail-Order Pharmacies

Convenience and Cost Savings

Non-disabled individuals have no difficulty stopping by a pharmacy daily to pick up a prescription. It is far more difficult for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those who live in rural areas to access medications. These patients can order medicines from the comfort of their homes and have them delivered to their doorstep. Mail-order pharmacies are accessible 24 hours per day, seven days per week, allowing patients to place orders conveniently.

It may be harmful to discontinue some medications when a prescription runs out. Many mail-order pharmacies offer automatic prescription refill services, ensuring patients do not run out of essential medicines. Mail-order pharmacies often have the resources to offer discounts and lower prices on prescription medications compared to traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies.

Privacy

Some patients appreciate the added privacy of ordering medications online, as it avoids the potential stigma of picking up specific prescriptions in person. For example, some men may not want to stand in line at a pharmacy to pick up their erectile dysfunction prescription, mainly if their neighbors are nearby. Even teenagers may experience embarrassment at picking up acne medications. Online delivery avoids these uncomfortable situations.

Larger Inventories

They may have a more comprehensive selection of medications, including generic alternatives, making it easier for patients to find the necessary medicines. As generics tend to cost less than brand-name medications, the more extensive inventories offered by online pharmacies add to the cost savings for the patient.

Disadvantages of Mail-Order Pharmacies

Delayed Delivery

As we mentioned, many medications must be taken every day. At brick-and-mortar pharmacies, delays can occur because of shortages of drugs like Ozempic. Delayed delivery via international mail is possible, but PlanetDrugsDirect avoids delays by generating automated refill reminders. This feature allows patients to enjoy 80% cost savings while ensuring reliable delivery of their medications.

Limited In-Person Interaction

In brick-and-mortar pharmacies, there is that moment when the pharmacist asks the patient if they have any questions. PlanetDrugsDirect knows these interactions are valuable, so access to pharmacists is always available through the chat feature on the website. Unlike the local pharmacy, your access to a pharmacist is only a click away. This option offers an added layer of privacy that is not available when standing in a line at a pharmacy surrounded by your neighbors.

Insurance Coverage

Some insurance plans may not cover medications purchased through mail-order pharmacies or have specific requirements and restrictions. We expect the trend toward increased coverage will continue as remote medicine and online pharmacies gain acceptance.

Limited Over-the-Counter Products

Mail-order pharmacies primarily focus on prescription medications, so their selection of over-the-counter products may be more limited than traditional pharmacies. Fortunately, many over-the-counter products are available at PlanetDrugsDirect, adding considerable convenience to their clients.

Is This ‘Pharmageddon’?

It appears unlikely that the major pharmacy chains will disappear anytime soon. Many chains provide services that online resources cannot offer, such as urgent care services and vaccinations. As disruptive as online pharmacies have been to the pharmaceutical economy, they are not nearly as disruptive as pharmacy chains were to mom-and-pop pharmacies, which have virtually disappeared.

When considering using a mail-order pharmacy, it is essential that patients research and choose reputable providers, understand their insurance coverage, and consider their specific medication needs and preferences. Individuals with acute or complex medical conditions may benefit from maintaining a relationship with a local, in-person pharmacy for personalized care and immediate assistance. Consult a qualified medical professional with questions or concerns about accessing medications.