Both Alto Pharmacy and Costco Pharmacy offer convenient prescription services with user-friendly mobile apps and online platforms. Alto Pharmacy excels in delivery speed and specialized medications, while Costco Pharmacy provides cost savings through its membership program and vaccination services. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
| Attribute | Alto Pharmacy | Costco Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Delivery Options | Express delivery (within 1 hour for $14.99), express pick-up (within 1 hour for free), same-day delivery ($9.99), next-day delivery, scheduled delivery, and free delivery. Real-time tracking via mobile app. | Mail Order (3-5 days after shipping, processing 1-4 days, delivery 6-14 days, expedited shipping available), Instacart (same-day delivery), Home Delivery (2-14 days) |
| Prescription Transfer Process | Transfer prescriptions via app or website. Alto contacts current pharmacy to arrange transfer, or doctor sends new prescription directly to Alto. Quick and easy, can take a photo of current medication's label, and Alto will handle the rest. | Transfer from other pharmacies or Costco locations via website or app; requires pharmacy name/location, phone number, medication name, and personal information |
| Medication Pricing and Discounts | Searches for savings (coupons, copay cards, assistance programs), applies savings automatically, coordinates with doctor/insurance for best price, shows all pricing options (including cash vs. insurance). Partners with Cost Plus Drugs to offer discounted medications. | Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP) offers up to 80% savings on generics and brand-name medications for members and pets; savings range from 2% to 40%; accepts other discount cards like SingleCare and RxSaver |
| Insurance Coverage Acceptance | Accepts most major insurance plans. Handles insurance details, provides clear information about copays, deductibles, and formularies. Works with doctor to submit prior authorizations. | Accepts most major insurance plans (commercial, Medicare Part D, state plans); check with local pharmacy or insurance provider |
| Availability of Specialty Medications | Specializes in medications for HIV, hepatitis C, asthma, COPD, dermatology, fertility, biologics, autoimmune diseases (RA), endocrinology (diabetes), and cardio (heart disease). | Offers specialty medication options |
| Online Refill Management | Manage and order refills online via app or website. Enroll in auto-refills. Medication bundling available, receive all medications in a single, recurring delivery. Sync refills and create a custom timeline for refills. | Refill online or via mobile app; features include refill from list, Rx history, and transfer prescriptions |
| Pharmacist Consultation Availability | Pharmacists available via phone, text, email, and app to answer questions. Available seven days a week, including nights and weekends. Experts in every area of care. | Personalized advice from licensed pharmacists; exclusive virtual appointments for members |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Care team can be contacted via phone at 1 (800) 874 5881, secure message, or email. | (800) 607-6861 for online ordering assistance |
| Mobile App Functionality | Refill prescriptions, manage medications, schedule deliveries, track orders, message pharmacists, and manage payment options. | Order refills, view Rx history, transfer scripts, manage family accounts, set medication reminders |
| Medication Adherence Programs | Medication reminders and auto refills. | Refill reminders and auto-refill program |
| Vaccination Services Offered | Not available | Flu, COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia, Tdap, hepatitis; schedule online or via app |
| Prescription Synchronization Options | Medication bundling, receive all medications in a single, recurring delivery. Sync refills and create a custom timeline for refills. | Offers medication synchronization |